Brook Lodge

The service was clean and hygienic and personal protective equipment was available following government guidelines. However, we observed some staff were not wearing face masks as required, staff confirmed they understood the requirements to wear face masks. The provider took appropriate action immediately and there is a plan in place to make sure it did not happen again.

Potential risks to people's health, welfare and safety had been assessed and there was guidance in place to reduce the risk. Accidents and incidents had been recorded and analysed to identify patterns and trends; action had been taken to reduce the risk of them happening again. There were systems in place to protect people from discrimination and abuse.

People's medicines were managed safely. Staff monitored people's health and referred people to relevant health professionals. Staff followed the advice given to keep people as healthy as possible.

Staff had been recruited safely and received training appropriate to their role. Staff received supervision to develop their skills and practice.

The management team completed assessments before people moved into the service to check staff could meet their needs. People had care plans detailing their choices and preferences and these had been reviewed.

People were supported to eat a balanced diet; people had a choice of meals. People had access to activities they enjoyed. People were given information in a format they could understand.

People were treated with dignity and respect; they were supported to be as independent as possible. People's end of life wishes were recorded, staff worked with the GP and district nurse to support people at the end of their life.

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.

The management team completed checks and audits on the quality of the service and acted when shortfalls were found. There was an open and transparent culture within the service. Relatives told us they knew how to complain and were confident action would be taken.