The Holt

We found the following examples of good practice:

Visitors were only permitted by prior appointment but due to the nature of the small, personalised service the home were able to ensure people regularly kept in contact with their family and friends in a safe way. Each visit was risk assessed and all parties were aware of the guidelines for safe and enjoyable visiting.

People and staff have been regularly tested to ensure they have not contracted Covid-19. Strict measures were in place to ensure people and staff would be isolated immediately if they had any symptoms of the virus, or if they had tested positive. Contingency and admission plans were clear and included external accommodation for staff if necessary. People and staff had received their first Coronavirus vaccination.

People had coped well during the pandemic due to a positive staff group who knew people's needs well. There was a good range of activities to suit individual interests. People had been able to go out for socially distanced walks in the nearby countryside, enjoy BBQs and birthdays and themed parties had been arranged to keep people occupied and keep their spirits up. Staff had made home made 'takeaway' meals and brought in their dogs which people had enjoyed.

Safe procedures have been followed by staff to minimise the risk of transmitting Covid-19. They had good stocks of all personal protective equipment (PPE). There were supplies of PPE available around the home. Staff were seen using appropriate PPE. Staff had received training on donning and doffing and on the coronavirus pandemic from various sources including e-learning and from in-house training sessions. These included regular refreshers and questionnaires to ensure staff knew what to do.

People were supported to understand what the pandemic meant for them using communications they could understand, such as easy read. Staff explained the television news for people and ensured people knew who was supporting them and why they were using masks.

The home was clean and hygienic and easily enabled zoning and space to allow social distancing and safe breaks for staff. Detailed cleaning schedules were in place for all areas of the home. All touch points were cleaned frequently including high touch points. Deep cleaning of all areas was carried out regularly. The home was well-ventilated and new cleaning products had been sourced for effectiveness.

The registered manager and providers acknowledged the staff team had been through a very difficult time and supported staff. The provider had sent personalised thank you cards to all staff. Staff across the provider group celebrated peoples' achievements and shared positive stories using a workplace Facebook page. Staff and managers had good communication with with the provider through regular meetings and

question and answer sessions and updates. Staff felt valued and appreciated and had received special treats as a thank you for their hard work.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found