Bannow Retirement Home

The premises and general environment were poorly maintained with various areas requiring repair and maintenance. Some work was being completed to the front of the premises but other issues, such as broken windows, had been needing attention for many months and were still outstanding. There was a lack of monitoring in accidents and incidents, so risks to people were not being identified and mitigated. Safe staff recruitment practices were followed with new staff not starting work until the required documentation was received. However, some staff had not been trained in all the skills needed to ensure that people were safely supported. This was discussed with management during our visit. Staff supervision meetings were inconsistent, so staff support needed improving. Medicines management needed minor improvements, but medicines were stored securely, and staff who administered medicines to people had completed the required training. People’s care plans were lacking in personal information, and some medical details were wrongly documented, which impacted on the safety of care people received. At the time of our visit 2 different care plan systems were in use. There were inconsistencies found between the 2 systems regarding the information recorded which created confusion with people’s care needs and required actions. There was a lack of governance and operational audits, and we found the information that was routinely monitored was incorrect and not checked by management to ensure it was right. In general, there was poor oversight throughout the home relating to risks and standards. There a lack of organised record keeping, for example, with people’s consent forms, as they could not be located on the digital care plan system or by means of a paper copy.

The manager told us they ensured people had safe transitions between services, and they maintained continuity of care whenever possible. The care team supported people with kindness and respect. We saw staff assisting people and working together to provide safe support when people needed supervision with mobilising. People had a range of activities provided for them and the home had recently employed a new activity co-ordinator. People were supported in choosing how they wished to spend their time, and we saw people accessing the communal areas, outside in the garden and being able to remain in their own rooms. The home offered a choice of menu with nutritionally balanced meals and catered for any specialist dietary requirements, such as pureed foods and soft diets. The home worked collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure people received the care and treatment they required. Other partner services were referred to with respect and professional courtesy. People were supported to plan for emergency care, and many had advanced decisions in place. The manager was aware that changes needed to be made and had ideas for the development and improvement of the home. They were enthusiastic about improving the quality of people’s lives. They welcomed feedback from staff, relatives and professionals and looked to work hard to establish increased links with the community.