Beechwood Lodge

People were supported safely by a consistent staff team who knew them well. People felt safe, and staff understood their roles and responsibilities. Staff were recruited safely. Appropriate checks of the premises were carried out, and the home was clean and tidy. Some improvements were needed in relation to guidance for staff on how to mitigate risks and manage medicines effectively.

Staff worked effectively with other healthcare services to meet people’s needs, and recognised signs of illness in those they were supporting. People’s needs were assessed, and staff and families were kept informed of any changes. People spoke positively about the food, which was available throughout the day. Those at risk of weight loss received additional support. Consent was sought when providing assistance.

People spoke highly of the staff team, describing them as kind and caring. People’s dignity and ability to make choices were respected, and independence was promoted. The registered manager took a flexible approach to supporting staff wellbeing.

People received personalised care that met their needs and preferences, although improvements were needed in record-keeping to ensure information about people’s preferences was readily available. Communication between teams was effective, and information was adapted to meet people’s needs. The registered manager and staff team took a positive approach to challenging inequality and supporting people to access the services they needed. People received good quality care at the end of life, and we received positive feedback from families in this area. However, further work was needed to ensure a proactive approach to conversations about wishes at the end of life, and to ensure records were updated to reflect changing needs.

The registered manager was visible across the home, and people, families, and staff found them approachable and responsive when concerns were raised. The registered manager was committed to ensuring people received good quality care and had an extensive system in place to maintain oversight of people’s safety. Staff spoke positively about how the service was run, and there was a culture of teamwork within the home. People and families spoke highly of the service.