Beech Court Care Home

We found the following examples of good practice.

The provider ensured people were protected from the risk of people accessing the home who were not vaccinated and/or could not provide evidence of a negative LFT result. There was sufficient space indoors and outdoors for safe visitation to take place. This included a newly built summer house to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19.

We observed staff wearing PPE as required. When staff provided personal care there were sufficient PPE stations to enable them to don and doff (put on and take off) their PPE safely. Communal areas were spacious, and seating was set at a safe distance to encourage social distancing. We did note there was no process in place informing staff what clothes they should wear when arriving to and leaving from work. We were told some staff wore their uniforms to work, other changed at work and this was the same when staff left work. The representative of the provider acknowledged this increased the risk of the spread of COVID-19 and would address this immediately.

The home was currently in 'Outbreak status' meaning the home was closed to non-essential visitors until the home was clear of COVID-19. However, we were informed that all people living at the home had now tested negative for COVID-19 and the home was due to re-open soon. Safe isolation procedures were in place to protect others from the risk of infection. There were ample supplies of PPE throughout the home.

The provider had processes in place that ensured the safe admission of new people to the home. The provider also assessed the impact of isolation on people's wellbeing. This included increased time spent by staff with people in their bedrooms to offer support and reassurance. All new admissions had to meet required vaccination status and negative LFT result before entry was granted to the home.

It was acknowledged isolation for people living with dementia was difficult at times. Increased support from staff was in place where needed. Posters were placed around the home offering guidance and information for people and staff advising them how to spot the signs of COVID-19 and to help to reduce the risk of spreading it.

A robust testing regime was in place. All staff and people living at the home were tested regularly and in accordance with government guidance. The provider had ensured they and their staff were aware of government guidelines which state when a member of staff must be fully vaccinated by in order for them to continue in their role.

Regular cleaning of all touch points and other key areas were carried out throughout the day. We observed

the home was visibly clean and tidy.

There were enough staff to support people safely and to cover any staff holidays, sickness and COVID-19 isolation. Agency staff have not been needed to cover shifts.

The provider considered staff member's wellbeing. A variety of initiatives were in place to thank staff for their support.

The provider had assessed the impact of potential 'winter pressures' and acted accordingly. Regular COVID- 19, outbreak and other related audits were carried out to help identify any areas of concern. Action plans were in place and reviewed.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found