Aycliffe Care Home

We found the following examples of good practice.

• Systems were in place to prevent visitors from catching and spreading infections. Only essential health and compliance visits could take place at the time of the inspection. Visitors were screened for Covid-19.

• Staff had undertaken training in infection prevention and control (IPC). Staff were seen wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The home had sufficient supplies of PPE and staff were trained in its use.

• The home supported people and staff as far as possible with social distancing. Dementia friendly signs were on the wall to support people's understanding of the pandemic. Clear signage was in place throughout the home instructing and reminding staff of their responsibilities to ensure good practice was adhered to.

• The home carefully considered and supported the wellbeing of people and staff. One to one activities with people had increased to engage people and to minimise social isolation. People were supported and encouraged to have telephone and video contact with friends and relatives. Staff were able to access a number of wellbeing resources.

• Systems were in place to admit people safely into the home. People were isolated when needed.

• People and staff were regularly taking part in the Covid-19 testing programme.

• The home had robust IPC policies and risk assessments in place. The regional manager spoke positively about the strong team spirit which staff had shown.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found