Woodwell House

We found the following examples of good practice.

• There were clear measures in place to manage and reduce the spread of infection. This included not allowing visitors into the building and clear information provided at the entrance to the building.

• The premises looked exceptionally clean. Staff carried out enhanced cleaning programmes and checks to reduce risk and avoid the potential spread of infection. Staff and visitors used personal protective equipment (PPE) and followed hand washing guidance to keep people safe.

• Staff wore appropriate PPE and the provider had access to sufficient supplies. Staff had received training in infection prevention and control and were confident in the safe use of PPE.

• When staff first started wearing PPE, they spent time with people explaining why they would be wearing the items. Staff provided easy to read and picture-based information to support people's understanding. In addition, staff gave each person time to touch and examine the PPE before staff began to wear it. This reassured people and reduced their anxiety.

• People were supported to keep in touch with families. This included video and phone calls and staff were in regular contact with people's families. Some people had been able to meet with family members in local open parklands. Staff had a good understanding of the importance of social distancing and protecting the people they support, particularly when people do not have capacity to understand the risks.

• Staff received regular ongoing support and many staff had worked at the service for years. Staff only worked at Woodwell House and no agency staff had been used since the start of the pandemic. No staff had been absent because of coronavirus, but the provider stated that staff would receive full pay if anyone had to isolate or displayed symptoms of Covid-19.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found