Mill River Lodge

IPC practice had significantly improved and was in line with current government guidance. People and their relatives told us they felt safe and were cared for by staff who knew them well. People told us staff wore Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when providing care and ensured that visitors to the home completed a lateral flow test for COVID-19 before they entered the building.

Risks to people's health and safety were assessed and people were supported to stay safe. Care plans were person-centred and provided staff with clear guidance on how to support people. Staff were aware of their safeguarding responsibilities and knew how to report and escalate concerns. Accidents, incidents and safeguarding concerns were appropriately investigated with actions taken to reduce the risk of reoccurrence.

Medicines were managed safely. People received their medicines in line with the prescribers requirements from staff who were trained and competent in the task. People who were prescribed medicines to be administered 'as and when required' (PRN) had detailed care plans to guide staff when PRN medicine should be administered.

People and their relatives told us staffing levels had improved and there were enough staff to meet their needs. Staff were recruited safely and had the skills, training and competence to provide safe and effective care. Staff had regular supervision where they received feedback about their practice and opportunities for development.

People received care in accordance to their needs and had access to healthcare services and support. One relative told us, "They [staff] always take time to help any resident who needs it. They don't get impatient and they help in a gentle way." People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

The culture within the home was positive, person-centred and promoted good outcomes for people. People and their relatives felt involved in their care and were complimentary about how the home was managed. A relative told us, "I think the home is very good and I have recommended it to people. I feel very confident with my [person] being there."