The Gables

We found the following examples of good practice:

People living in the home and staff were tested regularly for COVID-19 at the intervals stipulated by government guidelines. Relatives and friends visiting people living at The Gables were tested using rapid lateral flow tests (LFT). The LFT involves self-administering a nose and throat swab. The sample is processed before visitors are permitted to enter.

The service was booking visitors in at a time that suited people and was spaced out to avoid potential infection transmission with other visitors. Visitors were also provided with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a surgical face mask, gloves and an apron. Visitors were not permitted to access any other areas of the home.

People were also supported to stay in contact with their relatives and friends via telephone and video- calling. The provider issued weekly newsletters to relatives and friends, which contained details about their COVID-19 status, and visiting procedures.

The service was proactive in securing good stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Staff employed at the service had received training on infection prevention, COVID-19, and the correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Guidance was given to the service to enable them to strengthen and improve internal systems and processes. All recommendations were considered and acted on promptly.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found