Talbot Woods Lodge

The service had made improvements since our last inspection, and they had been embedded and sustained. People were protected from avoidable harm, as risks to their safety and wellbeing had been assessed. Staff worked in safe ways to ensure people were supported to be leaders in their life and access opportunities outside of the service safely. Staff understood the risks to people and were confident they were safe living at Talbot Woods Lodge. Staff knew how to raise concerns and were confident the registered manager would follow up and take them seriously. A health and social care professional told us, “Talbot Woods Lodge provides a good quality, safe environment that supports the wellbeing of its residents. Safety is consistently maintained and remains paramount within the service.”

People can only be deprived of their liberty to receive care and treatment when this is in their best interests and legally authorised under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). In care homes, and some hospitals, this is usually through MCA application procedures called the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). We checked whether the service was working within the principles of the MCA. The registered manager understood the requirements regarding people’s rights, and they had the necessary consents in place to ensure their care and support was carried out in their best interest. The culture of the service was one of encouragement, empowerment, safety and support, the registered manager, manager and staff told us they were passionate people should live full lives. People were accepted regardless of their background and staff were committed to creating a safe homely environment for them. Staff were safely recruited and received extensive training and support to carry out their role. People had access to healthcare and external professionals as required. Health and social care professionals were positive about their communication and work with Talbot Woods Lodge. We received positive feedback about the registered manager and manager of the service.