Rookhurst Lodge

Rookhurst Lodge is a residential care home that was providing personal and nursing care to people living with a learning disability, autism and/or mental health needs. At the time of the inspection, six people were receiving care and support at Rookhurst Lodge.

Rookhurst Lodge was compliant with the values underpinned in Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These values include choice, promotion of independence and inclusion. People had access to local amenities, facilitates and services such as healthcare and were supported to access these regularly.

People's experience of using this service:

• Staff had access to a wide range of training which in turn supported them to meet people's needs effectively. They sought advice from a wide range of healthcare professionals, and took initiative to support people according to their needs at the time. Staff knew people extremely well, and what approaches were effective with them, which added to the effectiveness of the service.

•The provider supported staff in providing effective care for people through person-centred care planning, training and supervision. This ensured the provision of best practice guidance and supported staff to meet people's individual needs.

• There was a friendly atmosphere in the service and staff were caring and compassionate in their approach towards people. Staff knew people extremely well and supported people to access the local community and engage in activities of their choice. Staff knew people's daily routines and what was important to them.

• There was a positive culture within the service where people, staff and relatives felt listened to. Quality assurance systems were in place which ensured high standards were maintained.

• The management of medicines was safe and the provider was following best practice guidance around stopping the over-medication of people living with a learning disability.

• People were truly placed at the centre of the service and were consulted on every level. Respect for privacy and dignity, and supporting people to feel truly, 'at home', was at the heart of the provider's culture and values.

• People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible. Staff empowered people to make day to day decisions and people were supported by staff to prepare their evening meal.

This service met the characteristics of Good. More information is in the 'Detailed Findings' below.