Moorfield House

At the last inspection we found the provider had made improvements but continued to be in breach of regulation in relation to safe care and treatment and governance. We issued the provider with a warning notice because the quality and assurance systems in place did not allow for effective oversight of people at risk of choking. We completed this inspection to review the service and check whether the issues identified in the warning notice had been addressed. Improvements had been made, and the service was no longer in breach of legal regulations.

Staff treated people with dignity and kindness. Staff worked with people to ensure they could still take everyday risks, and the activity co-ordinators ensured people engaged in meaningful occupation. At mealtimes for those people who stayed in their bedrooms staff carried their meals and drinks upstairs on trays. During the inspection the regional manager purchased a hot lock (which is a large container that keeps food warm whilst it is moved through the service), which would fit in the lifts, and they were in the process of installing tea-making facilities across the service to support people to continue to eat where they wished. They also ensured equipment in the kitchen was repaired and an air conditioning unit fitted to the storage area.

Assessments were completed in a timely manner. We discussed enhancements that could be made so the information clearly described how people presented and the actions staff should take when working with people. Staff had received training around the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and associated code of practice. DoLS applications were appropriately submitted. We discussed the use of capacity assessments and ‘best interests’ decisions and how these could be extended to all aspects of care where staff were imposing restrictions, or the person could not give their consent. The registered manager took immediate action to address this.

People received a nutritious diet. A new menu had been introduced which was currently being reviewed with people who used the service to ensure it reflected their preferences. Medicines were safely managed. Staff worked with local healthcare professionals and sought advice when required. Staff worked very effectively as a team to ensure people’s support needs were met. The activities team provided people with the opportunity to join in a wide range of entertainment both inside and outside of the service. They sensitively worked with people to find out how to improve their quality of life.

The registered manager ensured there was a system in place to encourage continuous learning, innovation and improvement across the service. They encouraged creative ways of delivering equality of experience, outcome and quality of life for people. A deputy manager was in the process of being recruited who would assist the registered manager oversee the service. The provider and registered manager were making sure the quality assurance system they had in place was effective. They encouraged people to share their views and always looked to see what improvements could be made.