Dove Court Care Home

We found the following examples of good practice.

Staff had received infection control training and followed up to date infection prevention and control guidance to help people stay safe. Staff used personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly and in accordance with current guidance to minimise cross infection risks to people.

Staff and people were regularly tested in line with the government's current testing programme. They supported people with social distancing and frequent handwashing to protect against Covid 19.

Staff used pocket sized symbol/cue cards to aid communication with people who were hard of hearing or struggled because of the use of face masks. During lockdown, staff assisted people to keep in touch with family and friends through telephone and video calls. To help people communicate with family members wearing face masks, staff taught people to learn sign language to say, 'I love you.' Plans were in place to support families to resume visits in a safe way from 8 March 2021.

People's physical and mental wellbeing was supported through exercise classes, games, quizzes and pamper sessions as well as live musical entertainment via video link. People who remained in their room had one to one support and social stimulation from key workers and an activity coordinator.

Staff worked well as a team and felt supported and valued. The provider and registered manager arranged thoughtful gifts such as hand cream, snacks and a personalised 'lockdown hero' medal to recognise their ongoing efforts to keep people safe during the Covid 19 pandemic.

The home was clean and well maintained. Cleaning records showed increased cleaning of frequent touch points such as door handles and light switches.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found