Holly Lodge Residential Home Limited

Risks to people had been assessed, and staff and managers ensured people received safe care and support. Where people needed equipment to help keep them safe, such as walking frames and call bells, these were available to them.

There were effective systems in place to safeguard people from abuse. Although there had been no recent safeguarding incidents, the registered manager and staff knew what action to take if they suspected abuse. Medicines were stored and administered safely by suitably trained staff.

People were supported by enough staff who had the skills and knowledge to support them safely. Staff were recruited safely. They completed essential and role-specific training, and their competence was assessed to ensure they could carry out their roles safely and effectively, including the safe administration of medicines.

People's needs were assessed before they moved into Holly Lodge. The registered manager told us they wanted to be sure they could meet people's needs and that new people would be compatible with others living at the service. People had access to a range of healthcare professionals. Their health needs were monitored, and appropriate action was taken when needs changed or they became unwell.

People can only be deprived of their liberty to receive care and treatment where there is appropriate legal authority. In care homes, this can be authorised through the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), which form part of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). We checked whether the service was working within the principles of the MCA and how DoLS were managed. We found staff and managers worked within the principles of the MCA. DoLS applications and authorisations were appropriately managed and monitored. People were not subject to unlawful or unnecessary restrictions and had choice, control and freedom over their lives.

The registered manager and nominated individual worked at Holly Lodge for many years and knew people well. They were passionate about helping people live healthy and happy lives. Staff told us they provided clear leadership and support, enabling them to carry out their roles effectively.

People were treated with kindness, dignity and respect. Managers and staff were warm and responsive to the needs of people and their relatives.

People were encouraged to be as independent as possible and were involved in decisions about how their care was delivered. One member of staff told us, "There are no set routines. People choose when they want to go to bed. They come and go as they please."

There were systems in place to monitor the quality of care. However, guidance relating to environmental safety had not always been followed. Once informed of the issue, the nominated individual and registered manager took immediate action to implement appropriate measures and ensure compliance with health and safety guidance.