Downham Lodge

We found the following examples of good practice.

The manager had followed current guidance in relation to infection prevention and control. The home was open to visitors.

The manager had risk assessments associated with COVID-19 which included information on their health. Staff had risk assessments in place specific to their needs.

The manager and staff spoke regularly to people living in the home and where relevant their families. They also had effective relationships with other professionals such as GP surgeries for the benefit of people living in the home.

The home was clean and tidy, staff followed cleaning rotas. Care staff were documenting cleaning being carried out within the home and this was checked daily by the management team to ensure it was carried out effectively. All staff ensured regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces of the home for example, light switches and door handles.

Robust measures in line with government guidance were in place for visitors who had easy access to hand gel throughout the home. Disposal of waste was managed effectively to ensure it was kept safe and disposed of after 72 hours.

The home was very well stocked with PPE supplies. This was located at designated points throughout the home to ensure staff had access to required PPE. We observed staff wearing PPE appropriately.

The deputy manager told us how staff had worked hard to support people's wellbeing during the pandemic by providing in-house activities and spent time with people to help ensure they did not feel isolated. The provider and manager supported staff with their well-being during the pandemic, staff were offered regular supervision.

There was a robust infection control policy and contingency plan in place that had been updated as guidance had changed.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found