Riversway Nursing Home

We found the following examples of good practice There was a Covid outbreak at the time of the inspection. Whilst we were walking around the home we saw that most people who did not have Covid had chosen to spend time in their personal rooms to help them keep safe. There were two people who were sat socially distanced in one of the lounges. Although they were not able to communicate through questions and answers, they appeared happy and relaxed in their home.

The emotional wellbeing of people, their families and staff had been supported throughout the pandemic. We read comments sent to the registered manager which she had received from relatives. These included, "I wanted to thank you and all the fantastic office staff for the times given to me to see my relative through these tricky Covid times", "We know the pandemic is not over but thank you for an outstanding job of shielding our relative and other residents in your care", "We know its not been easy but all your hard work and dedication in safeguarding everyone has made a huge difference" and "You are taking care of our loved ones, please take care of yourselves, you could not have done more".

All visiting arrangements followed government guidance, and these were adjusted dependent on whether there was an outbreak. In the event of an outbreak the manager had ensured every person living in the home had access to a nominated Essential Care Giver (ECG). This was usually a family member, but an alternative significant other would be nominated for those who did not have family. Enhanced risk assessments ensured this was managed safely and that all relevant testing and the use of PPE was maintained at all times. End of life visits had also been supported and respected so that people could spend time with those people who were important to them.

We spoke with five staff who spoke positively about their safety and how they worked together. Comments included, "I feel safe here. When Covid hit us, I was anxious and worried, but we just got on with it", "I do feel supported and safe here. I wear my PPE and take extra precautions entering rooms where people have Covid", "We have no choice but to just pull together and care for people" and "We are slowly returning to normal now. I did panic at the start of this outbreak, but everything is ok. We have a nice team here and we support each other".

The registered manager and deputy spoke with us about staff and the positive impact working alongside each other had progressed and changed during the pandemic. They were very proud of all staff and told us they had worked incredibly hard during challenging times. Staff were encouraged to consider and celebrate positive outcomes. Motivational support had been key to promote and improve camaraderie, closeness and bonds with each other.

The providers workforce contingency plan had ensured people's safety and quality of care had not been compromised. People continued to receive prompt medical attention when they became unwell and relationships with health professionals remained strong. When people were admitted to the home, risk assessments were completed, and people isolated in line with current guidance. Social distancing was encouraged throughout the home. Where this was not achievable, staff were aware of the need for enhanced cleaning of frequently touched surfaces and people were supported to wash their hands regularly.

Audits were complicated, and actions would be taken to ensure improvements were made if necessary. Staff had received IPC training and regular updates were provided. There was effective, supportive communication between the provider, managers, staff, people using the services and their relatives.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found