Lychgate House

In May 2023 the provider was previously in breach of legal regulations in relation to safe care and treatment, safeguarding and governance of the service. Improvements were found at this assessment, and the provider was no longer in breach of these regulations.

The provider had systems and processes in place to assess and manage risks to people’s health, safety and wellbeing. Staff received training, supervision and support to carry out their roles effectively, and recruitment records demonstrated appropriate pre-employment checks had been completed. Medicines were managed safely through established procedures, with regular audits undertaken to monitor practice and identify opportunities for improvement.

The general environment had improved with the addition of a new orangery which increased the amount of communal space people could access. Systems to ensure equipment was serviced within time frames were in place and upgrades to the fire system had started with some works left to do, however timescales for completion were in place. Infection control processes had improved with the support of routine audits, environmental checks and ongoing oversight of cleanliness and safety standards.

People’s needs were regularly assessed and reviewed to ensure their care reflected their individual circumstances, preferences and requirements. Staff worked collaboratively with healthcare professionals and other agencies to promote and maintain people’s health and wellbeing. Staff sought people’s consent before providing care and assessed their capacity to make specific decisions when required. Where people lacked capacity, decisions were made lawfully and in line with best-interest principles.

Most people and their relatives were positive about opportunities to access the community and take part in activities and events. People had activity plans in place to support their interests and preferences. People and relatives consistently told us communication was good and they were kept informed about changes to care and support.

Staff were mindful of supporting and promoting people’s independence and respected people’s privacy.

Governance systems had improved and were more effective in monitoring the quality and safety of the service, helping to identify areas for improvement and support positive outcomes for people.