Middlesex Manor Care Home

People and staff had participated in regular testing for COVID-19 in accordance with government guidance. Staff were provided with lateral flow test kits so they could undertake tests at home prior to commencing their shifts. Visitors were required to show evidence of a recent negative lateral test or were offered one prior to entering the home.

Staff members received full pay to ensure they were not financially disadvantaged if they needed to isolate following a positive COVID-19 test. The provider had a welfare fund that staff members could apply to should they require additional financial support.

An infection control lead worker was rostered on to each shift in each unit at the home. They were responsible for checking policies and procedures were always followed.

Posters and reminders of safe infection prevention practice were displayed in the home's reception area and at the entrance to each unit. Wall-mounted hand sanitisers were provided throughout the home. Members of the housekeeping team and care staff cleaned frequently touched surfaces, such as light switches, lift buttons and door handles throughout the day. Posters and notices were laminated and cleaned regularly. This helped prevent and control infection within the home.

People and staff were 'cohorted' which meant they always stayed and worked in the same units at the home. Activities were repeated in each unit so that small groups of people could participate with their regular staff members in a socially distanced way. Where people had been confined to their rooms, for example, due to a need to isolate, staff provided personalised activities for them, such as videos, music and chats. The registered manager told us that, during the summer months, some activities would take place in the garden to enable safe, socially distanced mixing.