Green Willow Care Home

Updated 13 March 2021

We carried out this inspection under Section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 as part of our regulatory functions. This inspection was planned to check whether the provider is meeting the legal requirements and regulations associated with the Health and Social Care Act 2008.

As part of CQC’s response to the coronavirus pandemic we are looking at the preparedness of care homes in relation to infection prevention and control. This was a targeted inspection looking at the infection control and prevention measures the provider has in place.

This inspection took place on 17 February 2021 and was announced.

Updated 13 March 2021

About the service: Green Willow is a residential care home for up to 31 people that was providing personal care to 21 people aged 65 and over at the time of the inspection.

People’s experience of using this service:

People told us they were happy at the service. They felt safe and well-cared for by kind and caring staff. People’s relatives confirmed they were confident their loved ones received safe and kind care.

People were complimentary about the food. They had a choice of meals and were always able to have an alternative. Staff made sure people had enough to drink and received any support necessary to eat their meals. The kitchen staff were aware of any special dietary needs.

The environment was bright, well-maintained and clean throughout. People had access to different communal spaces, one of which was TV free. There was a range of activities including exercises, games and puzzles, trips out and visits from entertainers. People told us they could participate or just watch. There were ample pictures around the service to remind people of activities they had enjoyed.

Care was provided by staff who were suitably trained and supervised. Staff had undergone recruitment checks before being employed by the service. Staff morale was good and we observed staff interacting with people in a way they preferred.

People’s care needs were assessed and their care provided in the way they preferred. Any risks to people were assessed and plans put in place to reduce risks. People’s emotional and social needs were included in their plans of care. Relatives were involved in planning and reviews of people’s care and were able to discuss any change in needs. They were informed of any incidents, such as falls.

However, people’s capacity to consent to their care and treatment had not always been recorded in line with legislation. We have made a recommendation about this.

The provider sought feedback about the service from people and their families. A satisfaction survey had recently been carried out which scored highly. There was a complaints procedure and any complaints were received openly and responded to with transparency. The provider apologised for any shortfalls and took action to address the complaint. The service had received a high number of compliments; many relatives expressed how satisfied they were with the care their loved ones received.

The registered manager demonstrated good leadership and staff morale was high. Staff told us they were well-supported and confident they would be listened to if they raised any concerns or had ideas for improving the service. The provider operated a clear governance system to identify and rectify any shortfalls.

Rating at last inspection: Good (September 2016)

Why we inspected: This was a planned inspection based on the previous rating. The service’s rating remained Good.

Follow up: We will continue to monitor the service through the information we receive. We will inspect in line with our inspection programme or sooner if required.