Ashburton House

The provider promoted a positive safety culture, where incidents were appropriately reported, reviewed and used as learning opportunities. The service used an electronic care system that contained key information about people’s care needs. Risk reduction measures, such as the completion of risk assessments and use of appropriate equipment, were implemented to support people’s safety. Staff worked effectively with healthcare professionals to promote safe, coordinated care and ensured smooth transitions between services. Safeguarding procedures were understood, and staff demonstrated an ability to support people safely.

Regular environmental checks were carried out to ensure the premises remained safe and well maintained. Staff received an induction, training, supervision and appraisal to enable them to develop and meet people’s needs. Staffing levels were appropriate to meet people’s needs, and people were supported to maintain their independence. Infection prevention and control measures were well managed, and the environment was clean and in good condition throughout the home.

Medication administration records reviewed during the assessment were fully completed, with no missing documentation, and stock levels were accurate.However, we found one person who did not have full details recorded about how and when their ‘when required’ medicines would need to be given, and we identified that improvements were needed to the timings of medicines rounds. The provider made these improvements at the time of our assessment to remove risk.

We observed people were treated with kindness and respect. Staff were observed providing supportive care that maintained people’s dignity. Relatives were welcomed and spoke positively of the service, staff and the care provided. People were encouraged to make choices and remain as independent as possible, moving freely around the home with support available when required. There were systems and processes to seek the views of people and their relatives.

There were effective governance arrangements. A regular auditing and quality assurance system was completed by the provider and registered manager. There was a service improvement plan to promote continual development and improvement. The provider had established a number of links with the local community to improve the quality of life for people living at the service.