15 August 2011
During an inspection in response to concerns
People told us that they went out regularly and had many opportunities to take part in activities in the local community. These included shopping, restaurants, visiting local attractions and hairdressers, as well as hospital, doctor and dentist appointments.
One person talked about the visits they had from nurses and social workers and said these were very important to them. All the people we spoke with told us there were always plenty of staff on duty who took time to talk with them if they were worried about anything.
On the second day we focussed on the services provided for older people. 36 older people were living in the home. We spoke with five people receiving a service and two relatives.
All the people we spoke with told us that they liked living at Gateford Hill. They told us that the staff were very good, kind and caring and were always there when needed. Some people were sitting outside enjoying the sunshine and the views of the grounds. They told us that they chose to go outside and some said they enjoyed taking a walk around the grounds with staff or family members.
We observed that people seemed very relaxed and content and this was confirmed by those we spoke with. All spoke highly of the manager and said that he has seen them every day that he worked in the home and always took an interest in what they were doing and asked if they needed anything.
People also told us that the manager has kept them informed of any changes that are currently occurring, due to the situation with the provider, Southern Cross.