Chimnies Residential Care Home

We carried out this inspection to assess whether the service had made and sustained the improvements required following our previous inspection in September 2022. At that inspection, we identified that the provider’s quality assurance systems were not sufficiently robust to effectively monitor and drive improvements. We also found that information relating to potential risks to people’s health, safety and wellbeing was not being consistently reviewed to ensure risks were identified, monitored and managed appropriately. At this inspection, we found improvements had been made.

People were protected from abuse, avoidable harm and neglect. Risks to people's health and wellbeing were assessed and managed, medicines were managed safely, and the home was clean and well maintained. Staff described an open culture where concerns were discussed and used as learning opportunities. One staff member said, “If something goes wrong, you're not penalised, we just try to find a solution and work it out.” Another member of staff told us, “If I made an error, they would be positive because we learn from these things.” We observed staff responding promptly when people needed reassurance or support.

People's needs were assessed and reviewed regularly. Staff monitored people's health, nutrition, hydration and wellbeing and worked closely with healthcare professionals to support positive outcomes. Handovers included discussions about people's nutrition, skin integrity, bowel health and any changes in wellbeing to ensure people received appropriate care.

We observed a warm, friendly and homely atmosphere where staff worked well together and treated people with kindness, dignity and respect. Staff were visible throughout the home, interacted positively with people and visitors, and demonstrated a genuine commitment to promoting people's wellbeing and quality of life.

Staff spent time talking with people, offering reassurance and responding promptly to requests for support. During lunch, staff offered people choices, respected their preferences and supported them at their own pace. One staff member told us, “It's more than a job to us. We genuinely care about the people we support.” People appeared comfortable and relaxed in staff presence, and staff joined people in singing after lunch, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

People experienced care and support from a consistent staff team who knew them well and understood their individual needs, preferences and routines. Staff were positive about the service and committed to providing person-centred care. One staff member told us, “It's a good service and I think the carers give 100% every shift.” We observed people being offered choices throughout the day and receiving support in line with their wishes. Activities reflected people's interests and staff understood what mattered to people and how best to support their wellbeing and reduce anxiety or distress when needed.

The service benefited from visible and approachable leadership. Staff spoke positively about the support they received. Comments included, “You can go to anyone there. They're amazing,” and “I feel appreciated, it's an enjoyable job, when you're working in a job that you love, you feel happy.” Audits, meetings, surveys and service improvement plans were used to monitor quality and drive improvement. However, further improvements were needed to ensure care records consistently provided clear oversight of care delivered.