Wolborough Court

We received mixed reviews about staffing levels to meet people's care and support needs. Despite the national staffing shortages, the management team had worked hard to ensure that staffing levels were adequate to meet people's needs. The provider and manager confirmed they had experienced difficulties with staffing, largely due to staff leaving, recruitment difficulties and last-minute staff sickness. The provider was actively recruiting for staff on an ongoing basis via various advertising sources. Recruitment checks had been undertaken on staff to make sure they were suitable to support people.

Since our inspection, the home had successfully recruited staff to support the home and further ensure people's care and support needs were met in a timely way.

The service provided safe care to people. One person told us, "Oh yes, I feel safe here." A relative commented, "I am extremely happy with the care provided by Wolborough Court in respect of my mother." Measures to manage risk were as least restrictive as possible to protect people's freedom. People's rights were protected because the service followed the appropriate legal processes. Medicines were safely managed on people's behalf.

Care files were personalised to reflect people's personal preferences. Their views and suggestions were taken into account to improve the service. People were supported to maintain a balanced diet. Health and social care professionals were regularly involved in people's care to ensure they received the care and treatment which was right for them.

Staff relationships with people were caring and supportive. Staff provided care that was kind and compassionate. Comments included, "The staff are caring, friendly and respectful" and "I love it here, I've got my own room upstairs and I like the views."

People received effective care and support from staff who were well trained and competent.

The premises were clean and tidy. Staff followed current hygiene practice to reduce the risk of infections. Visitors to the service were given information to help them reduce the risk of catching and spreading

infection. Health and safety checks of the premises and equipment were carried out at regular intervals.

Staff spoke positively about communication and how the management team worked well with them and encouraged their professional development.

People's equality, diversity and human rights were respected. The service's vision and values centred around the people they supported. The organisation's statement of purpose documented a philosophy of maximising people's life choices, encouraging independence and people having a sense of worth and value. Our inspection found that the organisation's philosophy was embedded in staff practice at Wolborough Court.

A number of methods were used to assess the quality and safety of the service people received. The service made continuous improvements in response to their findings.