Highfield Scheme Limited

We found the following examples of good practice

The registered manager had established effective infection prevention and control procedures which were understood and followed by the staff. A screening process had been implemented for visitors, which included health and temperature checks as well as lateral flow tests for coronavirus.

A regular programme of testing for COVID-19 was in place for staff and people using the service. This meant swift action could be taken when any positive results were received.

The registered manager confirmed there were plentiful supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and stocks were carefully monitored. PPE was readily available for staff to access when they were supporting people with personal care. PPE was disposed of safely, which helped reduce the risk of cross contamination. Staff had been trained in infection control practices and posters were displayed to reinforce procedures. We observed the management team were using PPE appropriately. The registered manager confirmed there were sufficient staff to provide continuity of support should there be a staff shortage. Staff were allocated to specific settings and were only reallocated in extreme circumstances. This was to ensure safe staffing levels for people using the service and minimise risk. The registered manager told us they took into consideration staff experience and their vaccine status.

The registered manager informed us the staff maintained social distancing wherever practicable and ensured people were advised about good levels of ventilation. Where the provider was responsible for the cleanliness of people's environment, the staff followed enhanced cleaning schedules which included all areas of people's homes. The staff returned completed cleaning records to the office on a monthly basis to enable the registered manager to carry out an audit. In addition, the management team carried out regular checks to ensure the appropriate standards of hygiene had been maintained.

The registered manager praised the resilience, commitment and creativity of the staff team. They explained, the staff had enabled people to participate in meaningful activities in their own house throughout the pandemic and within the community when this became possible. The registered manager added the staff worked effectively as a team and everyone was well supported by the provider.

Policies, procedures and risk assessments related to COVID-19 were up to date which supported staff to keep people safe. The registered manager was the designated lead for infection prevention and control and ensured staff were promptly informed of current guidance and good practice issues.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found