Little Heath Lodge

The provider screened all visitors to the home for symptoms of acute respiratory infection before they could enter the home. Visitors were supported to follow the government's guidance on hand washing, sanitising, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), temperature checks, and that they had been fully vaccinated before entering the home and social distancing whilst on the premises.

There was an enhanced COVID-19 testing program in place for people using the service and for staff. When people or staff showed symptoms of COVID-19 they were required to self-isolate. We observed staff wearing appropriate PPE and socially distancing throughout our visit. During our visit we saw the home was very clean throughout. Staff on duty including a dedicated staff maintained a cleaning schedule and was monitored regularly by the registered manager.

The provider carried out relevant checks prior to any new admission to the home. The checks included; COVID-19 PCR test report showing a negative result, the person was not returning from an environment infected with COVID-19, and they were fully vaccinated.

The provider was well stocked with PPE always, which included hand sanitiser, disposable aprons, mask, gloves, face shield. Staff had a designated room for donning and doffing. Staff were trained on how and when to use PPE and their disposal, as appropriate.

The provider carried out regular COVID-19 PCR and LFT tests and temperature checks for people and staff in line with the government guidelines. None of the people using the service was tested COVID-19 positive, all remained without any infection throughout the pandemic.

We observed staff wearing appropriate PPE and socially distancing throughout our visit. During our visit we saw the home was clean throughout with good ventilation. Staff on duty including a dedicated staff maintained a cleaning schedule and was monitored regularly by the registered manager.

There had always been enough staff to meet people's needs throughout the pandemic. All staff had received training on COVID-19, infection control, the use of PPE, and they had been fully vaccinated. The registered manager carried out checks on agency staff to make sure they had received training on infection control, and they had been fully vaccinated.

The provider had a COVID-19 specific policy and procedures, and a contingency plan in place which they had followed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The operations director and the deputy manager told us

there were no restrictions on visiting at the home in accordance with the current guidance.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found