Beamish Residential Care Home

Staff followed effective processes to assess and provide the support people needed to take their medicines safely. A relative commented, "We were very strict with [Name]'s medicines and staff are too. They make sure [Name] takes their medicine correctly at the right time."

Staff contacted health professionals when people's health needs changed. A relative told us, "Staff involve other people whether it's a referral to the Speech Therapy Team or Mental health team and they contact the GP."

People and relatives were very positive about the caring nature of staff and had good relationships with them. They trusted the staff who supported them. A relative told us, "Staff are incredibly compassionate and they are absolutely brilliant with residents. They are good at building relationships and are always friendly and always approachable, absolutely kind and patient."

Staff followed good infection control practices. A programme of refurbishment was taking place around the home.

Records provided guidance to ensure people received safe, person-centred care and support from all staff members. A professional commented, "People receive personalised care and staff members are well-aware of their needs."

Staff spoke very positively about working at the home and the people they cared for. They said communication was effective to ensure they were kept up-to-date about any changes in people's care and support needs.

Staff respected people's diversity as unique individuals with their own needs. The staff team knew people well and provided support discreetly and with compassion. A relative told us, "Staff are very good with [Name] and they feel comfortable. [Name] cried with happiness when they got a permanent place here."

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.