Holt Farm Care Limited

We found the following examples of good practice. There were robust entrance procedures in place including, hand washing facilities, temperature recording and Covid-19 lateral flow tests (LFT). LFT are the tests that give an instant result.

The provider had good systems to ensure safe admissions, including only allowing new admissions after a confirmed negative result of the Covid-19 test.

Staff ensured people were able to stay in touch with their families using technology, such as Face Time. Visitors were allowed if pre-arranged with good plans in place to protect all concerned. The registered manager kept in regular contact with families to ensure lines of communication were kept open.

Staff had been trained in infection prevention and control and Covid-19and followed robust PPE [personal protective equipment] protocols. Staff understood the correct donning and doffing procedure to ensure PPE was being correctly used.

Regular testing for Covid-19 was conducted for both people living at the service and the staff. There was a comprehensive contingency plan of what to do in case of an outbreak.

Infection control audits took place and the cleaning of all areas including regular touchpoint surfaces. Staff confirmed this reduced infection risks.

Risk assessments to ensure appropriate support for staff had been carried out, these included individual health conditions and personal circumstances. Staff had access to dedicated counselling and advice if they been affected directly or indirectly by Covid-19. Staff told us they were happy with the support and guidance they had received from the registered manager and provider.

The registered manager reported good support from the local health professionals and the team at the provider's head office.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found