The Cedars (Mansfield)

The property was slightly larger than most domestic style properties and registered for the support of up to seven. Although this is larger than current best practice guidance, this was mitigated by the building design fitting into the residential area. There were deliberately no identifying signs, intercom, cameras, industrial bins or anything else outside to indicate it was a care home. Staff were also discouraged from wearing anything that suggested they were care staff when coming and going with people. There were also excellent links with the local community.

Relatives and staff told us the home was safe. Staff understood the importance of keeping people; they had a good knowledge of safeguarding and the whistle blowing procedure. Although they hadn't needed to raise concerns, they felt supported to do so if required. Previous safeguarding concerns had been reported and thoroughly investigated.

There were enough staff to provide personalised care and give people the time they needed. New staff were recruited safely.

People received their medicines as prescribed. Effective action was taken in response to accidents in the home, to prevent a further occurrence and learn lessons. Health and safety checks and risk assessments were completed to help maintain a safe environment.

Staff were well supported and received the training they needed. People were supported to have enough to eat and drink and to access health care when needed.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People's needs had been fully assessed; the information gathered was used to develop detailed and personalised care plans.

People were supported to participate in activities of interest to them; people regularly accessed their local community.

Staff and relatives told us the home was well managed. There were regular opportunities people, relatives and staff to share their views. Quality assurance checks were effective in ensuring the home was continually improving.

The service applied the principles and values of Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These ensure that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes that include control, choice and independence.

The outcomes for people using the service reflected the principles and values of Registering the Right Support by promoting choice and control, independence and inclusion. People's support focused on them having as many opportunities as possible for them to gain new skills and become more independent.