Lyons Court Care Home

The environment was becoming better maintained, there was a programme of refurbishment around the home. However, we signposted the provider to design the environment so that it meets the needs of people who may live with dementia or a dementia related condition to keep them orientated and informed. Improvements had been made to infection control. However, we discussed with the registered manager further improvements were needed to ensure all areas of the home were clean and odour free.

People received a varied diet. We discussed with the registered manager that improvements could be made to people’s dining experience, including the provision of appropriate dining furniture for people. Information was accessible, however, people did not always have information in formats to suit them, for example, when choosing meals for the day.

Care records were in place to ensure staff had guidance to meet people’s needs in a more person-centred way. Risks to people had been assessed and care plans were in place to help mitigate risks as far as possible. Accidents and incidents were investigated thoroughly, action taken, and lessons learned. Equipment was available to meet people’s needs and to help maintain their independence.

People’s mental capacity and ability to consent was taken into account. People and their representatives were involved in planning their care and support. Staff received training to help ensure they were trained and competent to carry out their role to ensure people’s care and safety.

There were sufficient trained staff who worked with other professionals to ensure people's needs were met in a safe and timely way. Staff treated people with kindness and compassion. However, we discussed with the registered manager the improvements that were needed to staff engagement with people and to the provision of activities and entertainment to ensure all people were kept engaged and stimulated, if they wished.

There was robust recruitment of new staff. People, relatives and staff spoke positively about the service and management. They were consulted and asked to give their feedback about service provision. Governance was more effective. However, more frequent audits, and walk arounds were needed to ensure the timeliness of actions and to maintain the quality and safety of service provision.