Brook View

We found the following examples of good practice.

People, staff and visitors were protected from risks of infection by robust policies and procedures.

Visits were pre-booked and overseen by trained staff. Visitors completed a health questionnaire, had their temperature recorded and completed a rapid Covid-19 test, which provided a positive or negative test result within 30 minutes. Visitors used a separate entrance to access a designated visiting area with screening. End of life visits were always supported.

The home was visibly clean, hygienic and uncluttered. Staff used cleaning products recommended by the local NHS clinical commissioning group. Cleaning schedules included high touch point areas such as handrails, light switches and door handles. Regular cleaning audits were conducted to ensure safety standards were maintained. The home had a plentiful supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and staff were observed wearing this correctly.

Staff had received training in how to put on and take off PPE. They had also been trained to do the rapid Covid-19 tests. This helped ensure a consistency of approach and government guidelines were followed.

The home had supported people and staff to participate in the government's Covid-19 testing and vaccination programme. Consent had been sought appropriately when required. New admissions and people returning from hospital were supported to isolate for 14 days as per government guidance.

People and staff were supported to socially distance within the home. Seating and table arrangements were arranged to support this. Only two staff members were allowed in the staff room at any one time and staff breaks were staggered. This helped to reduce the risk of cross infection.

The home understood the importance of supporting people and staff member's mental wellbeing. Activities staff provided stimulation through one to one sessions with people. Socially distanced activities took place in the spacious communal lounges. We observed staff supporting a person who was self-isolating join a group activity via social media. The provider had created an activity pack for people that included a smart speaker, a TV streaming device and free daily newspapers and magazines of their choice.

Staff were encouraged to come forward if they were struggling and reasonable adjustments were explored with them. The registered manager felt supported by the provider in every aspect of maintaining care quality, wellbeing and safety for people and staff at Brook View.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found