Halden Heights Care Community

People told us they felt safe with the staff. People were comfortable with each other and the staff.. People approached staff when they wanted support and were given the emotional reassurance when this was required. Staff knew what their responsibilities were in relation to keeping people safe from harm and potential abuse.

Medicines were stored and administered safely by registered nurses. Staff were trained to meet people's needs and registered nurses were supported to keep their registration up to date with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Nurses and care staff received continuous support and supervision from the management team.

Staffing levels were based on people's needs. There were enough care staff and nurses to meet people's needs. Staff were recruited safely.

People received support to keep healthy and had access health care professionals as required. Daily handovers discussed any changes in people's needs and referrals to relevant health care professionals were promptly made. Potential risks to people's health and welfare had been assessed and action taken to reduce the risks. There were close links with the local pharmacy and GP who visited the service weekly. People's health was closely monitored with the support of health care professionals. Some people were supported to regain and maintain their independent living skills.

People's needs were assessed before coming to the service to make sure they could meet their needs. People's care plans were person-centred and informed staff how the person wanted to be supported. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People were supported to maintain their nutrition and hydration with a healthy balanced diet and access to fluids. People's weight was monitored and support was sourced from the relevant health care professionals when required.

The staff were caring, and knew people, their preferences, likes and dislikes well. Staff understood the importance of protecting people privacy whilst promoting their dignity. Staff sought people's consent prior to any care or support tasks.

People's, relatives and staff's feedback was sought and acted on. People's views were listened to and investment was made to improve people's comfort and well-being. People were supported to access a range of activities within the service.

People's wishes for care at the end of their life were recorded and respected. Nurses and care staff worked in partnership with the local hospice team and GP to support people to have a dignified death.

The management team were committed to improving the quality of the service people received. The registered manager had developed links with external companies to promote best practice and improve outcomes for people. Audits highlighted any areas for development or improvement, which were acted on quickly.