The Orangery

We found the following examples of good practice.

• Visits were well planned to reduce risk and avoid the potential spread of infection. Visitors received information before coming to the service so they know what to expect. This guidance was clear and personal protective equipment (PPE) was supplied. Visits usually took place in the garden area, but plans were in place to develop dedicated visitor areas as the weather becomes more inclement.

• When people were admitted to the service, current guidance requires that they must isolate themselves from other people who live there. These people were admitted to a room with ensuite facilities and direct access to garden areas to ensure they remained safe but had some freedom and independence.

• One person living at the service had been a musician. They asked if they could provide live musical entertainment when performers could not come into the service. This person performed a number of times during the period of lockdown, received positive feedback and enjoyed this role.

• Staff received additional training and completed competency assessments to show that they understood and followed guidance about infection control procedures such as hand washing and using PPE. The environment had been altered to ensure PPE was used and disposed of safely.

• Initially, staff lived in the service for two weeks then had two weeks off. This was to reduce risk and control the possible spread of infection. The provider considered staffs' wellbeing and needs during this time and on their return home. For example, the provider supplied a wide range of food, secured hotel accommodation when staff could not return home, and asked a local mental health team to support staff when this was required.

• A handbook which was available for staff about 'quarantining' in the service was informative and was translated into several languages. This ensured all staff had a good understanding about expectations.

• Audits were carried out daily and included general infection prevention and control checks, compliance with guidance and staff understanding of procedures and safe practice. Changes were made where needed and managers checked compliance regularly.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found