Ashcombe

We found the following examples of good practice.

The provider had acted to make sure people could have visitors safely. Temperature and symptom checks were made prior to entry. Hand washing and Lateral Flow Device (LFD) tests were also required for visitors. Family visits had been facilitated through a self-contained pod in the garden. When unable to have visits, the provider supported people with video or telephone calls to keep in touch with their family.

Where social distancing was not possible staff used other mitigation such as full personal protective equipment (PPE). Staff followed the provider's PPE guidance which reflected government guidance.

The registered manager had rules to ensure there were no more than two staff in a room at once and staff took staggered breaks to maintain social distancing. People were supported to have increased family visits if their wellbeing was affected.

The provider's admissions policy had been updated and met government 's COVID-19 guidance. When new people were admitted, they were tested and isolated upon arrival.

Staff changed their clothes before and after each shift to help prevent infections being transferred to people.

Regular whole home testing was in place in line with government guidance. Staff were tested daily before the start of each shift with a lateral flow device (LFD) test.

The appearance of the home was clean and hygienic. Cleaning checklists were in place including high contact area cleaning guidance. Windows were open for ventilation. Staff laid out the dining room to enable social distancing. There was clear separation of clean and dirty laundry. COSHH products were stored safely.

The provider was supported by the local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) with a meeting every Monday. Infection prevention and control (IPC) and PPE training for staff was via eLearning and the home trainer. The registered manager and home trainer undertook observations of staff to check good practice.

RESTORE2 training was provided for nurses (RESTORE2TM is a physical deterioration and escalation tool for care/nursing homes).

Staff were paid by the provider if they were off due to COVID-19.

The provider had a pandemic business continuity plan in place. The registered manager completed audits

and daily IPC checks . The provider's IPC policy had been updated to include COVID-19 guidance and outbreak procedures. The provider had completed risk assessments for staff in more vulnerable groups, such as those from a black, Asian and minority background, appropriate actions had been taken.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found