Sycamore Care Centre - Boldon

Staff safeguarded people from abuse. Risks to individuals and the environment were well managed. There were enough staff to meet people's needs. The provider learned from accidents and incidents to mitigate future risks. Medicines were safely managed. Infection control processes were embedded into the service and staff followed government guidance in relation to infection control and prevention practices, in particular, relating to COVID-19. A relative said, "Since there have been new owners, the home is immaculate."

People's needs were assessed before they moved into the home and on an ongoing basis. Staff were suitably trained and received regular supervisions. People were supported with their nutritional needs and to access a range of health care professionals. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives, and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible. The policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People were well supported and cared for. Staff treated people with respect and supported them in a dignified manner and in line with their wishes. A relative told us, "Good thing [about the service] is the care and patience of staff, they are fantastic. I can't think of anything that needs improving." People were encouraged to be as independent as possible, where it was safe to do so.

People received person-centred care and care plans detailed how they wished to be supported. Staff knew how to effectively communicate with people and communication methods were detailed in care records. People and relatives had no complaints about the home but knew how to raise concerns. Any complaints received were fully investigated and actioned. People enjoyed a range of activities inside the home and accessed the local community.

The home was well managed. People and relatives were complimentary about the home and care people received. The provider had an effective quality assurance process in place which included regular audits. People, relatives and staff were regularly consulted about the quality of the service through surveys, meetings and reviews.

For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk.