Thameside

We made a recommendation about the variety of available activities. Care plans were in place for people which set out how to meet their needs in a person-centred way. Information was provided to people in a way that was accessible to them. Systems were in place for dealing with complaints, and complaints were dealt with in accordance with the provider's complaints policy.

The service had enough appropriately skilled staff to meet people's needs and keep them safe. People and relatives told us there were sufficient staff to care for their family member. However, some staff felt staffing levels in certain areas of the home would benefit from more staff. The provider had a safe staff recruitment process in place. Staff received appropriate training, support and development which enabled them to meet people's needs.

People's needs were assessed before moving into Thameside. This was to ensure the service could meet these needs. People received care and support from staff who had were appropriately recruited and trained to recognise signs of abuse and how to safely support people. Staff understood people's risks and ensured people had as much choice and control of their lives as possible.

Referrals were made appropriately to outside agencies when required. For example, GPs, community nurses and speech and language therapists. Notifications were completed to inform CQC and other outside organisations when events occurred. Healthcare professionals told us staff were knowledgeable about people's healthcare needs and followed their recommendations.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice. They were supported with their nutritional needs. Specialist diets were in place when required and people were monitored to help them retain a healthy weight. Their health care needs were monitored, and staff ensured when support from external health professionals was required this was sought in a timely manner.

Family members spoke positively about staff engagement with their relatives and told us they were treated in a caring and respectful way. People and their relatives had the opportunity to express their views on their care and staff worked in a way which supported people's dignity and privacy.

For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk