Evergreen Court

People can only be deprived of their liberty to receive care and treatment with appropriate legal authority. In care homes, this can be done through a procedure called the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), which is part of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). We checked whether the service was working within the principles of the MCA and how they managed DoLS within the service. We found that staff and management worked within the MCA. DoLS authorisations were appropriately applied for and overseen. People were not subject to unlawful or excessive restrictions they had choice, control and freedom over their lives.

People were supported by enough staff who had the skills and knowledge to support them safely. Risks were assessed and people were involved in the process. There were effective systems in place to safeguard people from abuse. Medicines were administered safely. There were systems in place to ensure the environment was safe. However, some windows and window safety procedures required updating to be in line with current health and safety legislation.

People were supported by staff who recognised their individual preferences, routines and what was important to them. Staff took time to engage with people, offering support in a way that promoted their dignity, independence and wellbeing. People were offered choices throughout the day, including decisions about meals, activities, daily routines and how they wished to receive support. Staff respected people's preferences and adapted support to meet their changing needs.

People's privacy and dignity were promoted. Staff were observed speaking discreetly when discussing personal matters and supporting people respectfully when they required assistance. Staff knocked on bedroom doors before entering and ensured people were involved in decisions about their care and support.

The culture of the service promoted choice, control and person-centred care. People were encouraged to express their views and make decisions about their daily lives. Staff worked to ensure support enhanced people's wellbeing and quality of life, rather than simply meeting physical care needs. Feedback from people, relatives and observations completed during the SOFI demonstrated people experienced support that was caring, respectful and focused on what mattered most to them.