The Manor House Barnard Castle

People's mealtime experiences together with the management of food required attention. Although there was no harm caused to people, we have made a recommendation to review the provision of food.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People and their relatives told us the service provided safe care. Checks were carried out on staff before they began working in the home. The provider had taken steps to recruit additional staff and used agency staff when required. Risks to people were assessed and actions taken to prevent accidents and incidents. The management team review incidents and share learning.

Staff were caring towards people. They understood people's needs and promoted their dignity and independence.

Staff were provided with guidance on how to meet people's needs through detailed care plans. People were given the opportunity to engage in an activities programme. Complaints about the service had been appropriately addressed. Staff had discussed with people and their relatives how they wished to be cared for towards the end of their life.

The management team in the service carried out quality audits to assess standards in the home. Staff told us the culture in the staff team was improving and suggested further improvements. People, their relatives and staff were given opportunities to be involved in the service. There were good working arrangements with other professionals.