Gainsborough Care Home

The inspection was brought forwards following an incident in October 2024 resulting in the service having to temporarily close while thorough checks and investigations took place. The service reopened on 6 January 2025 after no safety issues posing a risk to people were found.

People were cared for safely and learning was taken from accidents and incidents and used to minimise future risks. Referrals were made to external agencies such as safeguarding and to healthcare professionals. We found some areas of medicines administration practice needed to be improved; however we found no evidence of impact on people as a result of this.

The provider compiled care plans for people and these, along with referrals to healthcare professionals and a regular GP checks, ensured people were supported to achieve good outcomes. People were offered choices, and we observed staff asking people for consent before providing care. Mental Capacity Act assessments and authorisations were in place to keep people safe and protect their rights.

We saw mostly kind and caring interactions between staff and people. All drinks were served in plastic cups whether people had an assessed risk about using ceramic cups or not. We found people’s clothing had been bundled into drawers and were crumpled and untidy. We also saw food items in people’s drawers alongside underwear, hairbrushes and creams. The registered manager immediately addressed these concerns, speaking with staff and directing them to check all drawers and ensure items were stored correctly. However, there were no concerns with how residents were presented during the inspection.

Call bells were promptly answered, and staff provided support in a timely way. Staff told us they had been well supported during the period of closure and an appraisal process enabled them to identify areas they wished to develop. We saw care plans that contained useful items of information that enabled staff to understand people’s needs, and people experienced continuity in their care.

The provider had a year long strategy to “celebrate best practices, enhance collaboration, and support continuous improvement.” The provider was working to develop Gainsborough Care Home’s role within the local community.