Bucks Country Home Care Limited

At the last inspection we found people were not routinely supported with their prescribed medicines in a safe manner, systems in place to manage medicines were not effective. Since the last inspection improvements have been made and we found people received their medicines when needed. This was corroborated by a relative who told us "The carers administer his medication professionally at the appropriate times." We have identified the service would benefit from further improvements in records relating to medicines prescribed for occasional use. The registered manager is aware and has plans in place to ensure this is completed.

People who were at risk of potential harm as a result of their medical conditions, environment, or ability to move had risk assessments in place. However, we found some risk assessments could have provided more detail to staff on how to mitigate harm. We have made a recommendation about risk management records.

People were supported by staff who had been recruited safely, had received support and training for their role. Staff had their competency checked to ensure they had the right skills and knowledge to work with people.

The provider ensured staff and people were protected from the risk of infections. Staff had access to good supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE), and people confirmed this was used on a regular basis. Additional infection control training had been provided following the Covid- 19 outbreak.

People and their relatives told us they found the service responsive to their needs. They commented they received a good service and knew who to contact about their care needs. Comments included, "Taking into consideration this unprecedented year of Covid-19, this service has been excellent" and "The office in Longwick is adept at changing the programme at short notice if I have to ask them to do so." Another person told us "Someone is always available via telephone." A relative told us they were "Very pleased with all that they do, very reliable always very helpful."

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