Elmwood Lodge

Visitors, including health and social care professionals were screened for symptoms of acute respiratory infection before being allowed to enter the service. The service followed national guidance when admitting people to the service to reduce infection risks. Staff ensured they and the people they supported were socially distanced where possible within the service. Staff had access to personal protective equipment (PPE) to support people safely whilst minimising the risk of the spread of infection. Staff understood how to put on and take off PPE safely and appropriately in line with national guidance.

Arrangements were in place for friends and relatives to visit people living at the service. Staff followed national guidance to ensure people could maintain contact with friends and family in a safe way. People were also supported to maintain regular contact with their friends and family members using a computer media-based programme that used video and audio connections. This enabled people with communication difficulties to not only hear but to see the people that were important to them.

There were appropriate arrangements in place to ensure people and staff were routinely tested for COVID-19 in line with government guidance on testing. Staff received infection control, COVID 19 and PPE training and followed safe hygiene practices within the service. The provider had infection prevention and control policies and procedures in place which were up to date and reflective of national government guidance. During our inspection we observed the home was clean and hygienic and staff worked with health and social care professionals to ensure good outcomes for people using the service.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found