43 Sedlescombe Road South

We found the following examples of good practice.

People were supported by staff to have visits from friends and family. Some people met with their relatives away from the home and others went to stay with relatives. Individual risk assessments were completed to consider each person's safety. Some people's relatives were unable to visit, for example if they lived at a distance, were elderly or had ill health and staff supported people to stay in touch through video calls. If relatives did not have facilities for video calling, staff provided updates via telephone or email.

People were supported to go out safely and, where possible, were encouraged to wear a mask and to wash their hands when they returned home. People were supported with their normal routines. At the time of our visit three people were out. One person told us they had just been shopping.

The registered manager told us that they had a flexible plan in the event of an outbreak as some people would be able to isolate but others would find this difficult. Each person had a risk assessment describing the support they would need.

There were cleaning schedules to demonstrate the routine and additional cleaning that was carried out. There was paint peeling from the walls in the laundry room, the counters in the kitchen were faded from the additional cleaning and there was a broken kitchen floor tile that could be an infection control risk and a trip hazard. The registered manager confirmed that all areas referred to were on a list of areas to be addressed in April 2022. The issue of the broken tile was more of a trip hazard than an infection risk so the registered manager confirmed this would be addressed as a priority.

Staff had received COVID-19 training along with training on infection prevention and control, and guidance for staff about how to put on and take off PPE safely. Updates and refresher training took place to ensure all staff followed the latest good practice guidance. Personal protective equipment (PPE) was stored in bathrooms. Hand sanitiser was readily available throughout the home. One person told us they thought the masks, "look silly, but if they make you feel safe, that's all that matters."

The home had some long-term agency staff that were used from time to time. A staff member told us, "The agency staff are amazing, we use the same workers where possible so there is consistency and they are familiar with the guys." Regular testing for people and staff was taking place. Staff tested before each shift in line with government guidance and people were supported to have a monthly test.

The registered manager told us they felt supported by the organisation. They also attended various support networks and peer support groups locally. They valued the opportunities this brought to meet virtually with other managers, to share experiences, and to give and receive support.

The registered manager told us that staff support and wellbeing had been a priority. All staff received regular one to one support. A staff member said, "There is always support available. We had a bonus at Christmas and we always get a voucher for birthdays."

Throughout the pandemic the home had strong support from their GP surgery. A GP and other health professionals had visited the service on the day of our inspection to carry out annual health reviews for people.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found