Choices Housing Association Limited - 20 Dairy Close

We found the following examples of good practice.

● The registered manager had introduced new visiting protocols, in line with guidance introduced on 08 March 2021.These had been clearly communicated to people's family and friends and were being kept under review as individual visits went ahead, to maintain people's safety. ● Alternatively, outdoor visits were continued using a free-standing Perspex screen, which enabled visits without the need to enter the home. A booking system was in place and enhanced cleaning was undertaken following any visits, which minimised any potential spread of infection. ● The registered manager had produced a pictorial guide to COVID-19 testing and vaccination to support and reassure people about the processes involved. ● Staggered mealtimes had been introduced to reduce mixing and promote social distancing. Staff told us people had taken well to this change and had resulted in other positive benefits such as improved concentration, which helped reduce choking risks. Staff now worked longer shifts to reduce the need for staff changeovers and potential for spread of infection. ● Staff felt well supported by the registered manager and used a social media group to keep in regular contact with each other. They could also access confidential counselling offered by the provider to support their wellbeing. ● The registered manager was in daily contact with the provider to ensure Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) stock levels were safely maintained at all times. Staffing levels were also closely monitored and a 'bubble' system had been developed to provide support to services in the event of an outbreak. ● The service had a winter plan which reflected on learning from the provider's other services, to ensure infection outbreaks were effectively prevented or managed. ●The environment was clean. Staff completed regular touch point cleaning and deep cleans to ensure the risk of cross transmission was reduced.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found