St Teresa's - Care Home with Nursing Physical Disabilities

There had been several changes in the management of the service since the last inspection. The recently appointed registered manager and regional manager had implemented the Leonard Cheshire organisation policies and procedures at the service. Staff found some of these changes challenging. For example, a review of staffing levels and deployment of staff around the service. Meetings with senior managers, human resources and staff were held to reach a compromise in how staff would be deployed around the service. Staff felt listened to and were satisfied with the allocation of core staff to particular units so that people could be supported by staff that knew them well.

People told us, as did relatives (with one exception) that there were sufficient staff on duty to meet people's needs. Staff felt if the staff rota was adhered to there would be sufficient staff on duty to meet peoples care needs. The difficulties arose when staff went sick at short notice or did not turn up for shift. When this occurred staff completed additional shifts or agency staffing was arranged. The provider has reviewed and continues to monitor staffing levels across all departments.

Appropriate employment checks had been carried out to ensure staff were suitable to work with vulnerable people.

People told us 'residents' meetings were held so that they had the opportunity to share their ideas on how the service was run. They also felt able to speak with the staff at the service.

People said the quality of meals had 'improved' and their dietary needs had been catered for. This information was detailed in people's care plans. Staff followed guidance provided to manage people's nutrition.

Care plans contained information about people and their care needs. People were supported to make

choices and had their support provided according to their wishes.

People were supported by staff who had received training to ensure their needs could be met. Staff received regular supervision to support their role.

People had good health care support from professionals. When people were unwell, staff had raised any concerns with health professionals to address their health care needs. Staff worked in partnership with health and care professionals.

Staff were patient and friendly, and people's privacy and dignity were respected. Staff knew how people preferred their care and support to be provided.

People were supported in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

The provider had followed national and local Infection, protection and control guidance in line with the Covid-19 pandemic. The providers policy covered the use of PPE, handwashing, cleaning protocols, testing and the visiting policy: which had been recently reviewed to help visitors to see their families safely.

Systems were implemented to ensure the effective management of medicines. Staff who were administering medication were trained.

There were effective quality assurance processes in place to monitor the quality and safety of the service. There was clear provider oversight and they had ensured effective and competent management was in place.