Sycamore Lodge

Improvements had been made to systems for reviewing records and enhancing information about people’s individual needs since the last inspection. However, these improvements were not yet consistent across all areas, and additional work was needed to ensure sustained and reliable practice.

Sycamore Lodge continued to demonstrate a caring culture, with positive relationships between staff, people and their families, and ongoing improvement supported by stable leadership. People told us they felt safe, well cared for and treated with kindness. We observed compassionate interactions, and staff used people’s life histories to inform daily care, activities and end of life support. Relatives consistently described the home as welcoming, friendly and an extension of family life.

The environment remained clean, safe and well maintained. Staffing levels were generally safe, supported by low agency use, a reliable internal bank and strong recruitment processes. Staff received regular training and competency checks and reported high levels of engagement and pride in their work. Some pressures were noted on the first floor residential unit, including inconsistent engagement during mealtimes; leaders were addressing this through supervision and additional training.

People experienced positive clinical outcomes, supported by effective work with external professionals and daily oversight of key risks such as falls, wounds, infections and unplanned weight loss. However, some aspects of care planning and clinical documentation still required improvement. This included care plans and records relating to catheter care, hydration monitoring, diabetes management, pain assessment and mattress settings. While we did not identify significant harm, inconsistent recording reduced assurance best practice was embedded consistently.

Safeguarding processes were effective, and staff escalated concerns appropriately. Leaders promoted openness and learning from incidents. People were usually involved in decisions about their care; however, documentation relating to some restrictive practices including bed sensors and acoustic monitoring, required clearer mental capacity assessments and best interest decision making.

Overall, Sycamore Lodge provided safe, effective and person centred care, with continued improvements noted. Some further work was required to ensure care plans and clinical records fully supported consistent and high quality practice.