Stoke House

We found the following examples of good practice.

• There were clear infection control protocols for all people entering the home, such as health screening, access to hand sanitiser, hand washing facilities and personal protective equipment (PPE). Staff provided visitors with directions about what they should do to ensure safety. There was clear signage to remind people about social distancing. • The registered manager communicated updates about COVID-19 guidance and home protocols to people's relatives, to ensure compliance with infection prevention control. • Thorough cleaning regimes were followed by staff including checklists for all high touch points. • Staff supported people to maintain social contact with friends and relatives through video and phone call. The registered manager told us this had become an opportunity for some people to develop their technology and communication skills. The home had visiting facilities in the communal garden or through meeting at a closed window. There was a separate indoor room which could be used for visits. The registered manager was in the process of reviewing visiting protocols for people's relatives in response to recent governmental guidance. • Staff used social stories with some people to provide information and reassurance about changes to their routines and additional infection control measures. At the beginning of the pandemic one person expressed distressed about staff wearing face masks; to reassure the person staff showed their face briefly whilst maintaining social distancing and wearing a visor before placing the mask on their face. • Records showed the service considered a person's wishes and emotional wellbeing when reviewing their shielding status. A best interest decision was made to enable the person to access the community and their college setting, supported by staff to follow specific safe measures to reduce risk. • The registered manager kept up-to-date with government guidance and advice from their local health protection team. They attended regular provider forums held by the local authority and knew who to contact for advice.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found