Archived: Abbeyfield Greensted

Is the service safe?

Is the service caring?

Is the service responsive? Is the service safe?

Is the service effective?

Is the service well led?

Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people using the service, their relatives, the staff supporting them and from looking at records. We found overall that action had been taken and improvements had been made by management and staff since our last inspection visit.

If you want to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.

Is the service safe?

The service was safe. People told us that they felt safe. Safeguarding procedures were robust and staff understood how to safeguard the people they supported.

Care records were being reviewed and regular auditing was undertaken to ensure that people were protected against the risks of inappropriate or unsafe care and treatment.

People's needs were taken into account when decisions were made about the numbers of staff, qualifications, skills and experience required to make sure that people's needs would be met.

Records required to be kept to protect people's safety and wellbeing were maintained, held securely and available when required.

Is the service effective?

The service was effective. People's health and care needs were assessed with them and/or their representatives. Specialist dietary, mobility and equipment needs had been identified in care plans where required.

People were referred to their GP and other health and social care professionals so they received the care and treatment they needed.

Is the service caring?

The service was caring. People were treated with respect and dignity by the staff. Staff interacted well with people and knew how to relate to them and how to communicate with them. People we spoke with told us that they were happy with the care they received and that they got the help they needed. One person told us 'The staff are excellent and the food is good'.

Is the service responsive?

The service was responsive. Staff listened to people, and took appropriate action to deal with any concerns.

Plans of care showed that the care staff noticed if someone was unwell, or needed a visit from a health professional such as a dentist or optician. The staff acted promptly to make appointments for people.

Is the service well-led?

The service was well-led. The manager of Abbeyfield Dene Holm assisted with the inspection process, he was supporting Abbeyfield Greensted together with a manager of another Abbeyfield home, until a new manager for the service was appointed. He had an open door policy and was available to speak with people using the service, their relatives or staff.

The recruitment process was underway to appoint a new manager for the service.

There were systems in place to provide on-going monitoring of the home. This included checks of the environment, health and safety, fire safety and staff training needs.

The staff confirmed that they had individual supervision and staff meetings.

People who used the service had their comments and complaints listened to and acted on effectively. One person told us 'I have no concerns, I can always talk to staff and they would help me'.

People who lived in the home told us they were satisfied with the service. They said, "I like living here, they look after us all very well." "I can choose what I want to do, I prefer to stay in my room most of the time". "I have no complaints at all, everyone is very friendly."

During this inspection we found that people or their representatives were asked for their consent before any care and treatment was given.

People were provided with appropriate care and support that met their needs and promoted their wellbeing.

People received the medication they needed at the time they needed it.

Robust recruitment procedures ensured that people were protected through the appointment of appropriate staff.

People knew who to talk to if they had any concerns about the service.