Brendoncare Meadway

Medicines were not always managed safely. We have made a recommendation about medication practices within the home, the provider took action to address this shortfall during the inspection. People were supported to continue to manage their medications independently.

Care plans and risk assessments were person centred. People and relatives told us staff knew them well. Staff supported people in a kind and compassionate way, considering their dignity and privacy, one person told us, "I continue to be amazed that the dedicated staff can be, day by day, so friendly, kind, and patient. I am particularly grateful residents are not obliged to join in activities, even including at mealtimes." The home and garden were accessible.

Infection prevention control procedures were robust. Feedback from people, relatives and staff identified people were protected due to a consistent response from staff when following guidance during the pandemic. Environmental safety checks were in place and fire safety was managed by the provider.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People, relatives and staff spoke positively of the culture within the home. The registered manager explained that staff levels had been increased following feedback from people using the service. One person told us, "We are so lucky. Staff work together as a team so well and oh of course I am safe, absolutely. We're here, we're alive and we like it." Another person stated, "We are a family here ."

The home worked well with other organisations; including the local GP surgery, district nurses and local colleges. The home understood the importance and benefit of links with the community by offering volunteering opportunities and maintaining ties with the person's local church .