Havering Care Services Ltd

The provider implemented visiting arrangements that were safe and helped to control and prevent the spread of infections. Visitor protocols included a lateral flow test (LFT) for COVID-19 prior to visits or proof of a negative LFT test taken shortly before their arrival. Visitors were given access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as face masks to make sure the risk of catching and spreading infections was minimised. Hand sanitiser was available for use at the entrance. Visitors had their temperature taken by staff to check they were not symptomatic of COVID-19. There was a visitor pod available, separate to the supported living site, where visitors had access to handwashing facilities and PPE.

Visiting professionals were asked to provide evidence of their COVID-19 vaccinations prior to entering the supported living site. Staff took a daily LFT test as a precaution to check if they had the virus before starting their work in the supported living service. The service followed national guidance when staff tested positive.

The service had enough staff to meet people's needs. Agency staff were recruited to cover when needed and the provider was able to maintain their assessed staffing levels. At the time of our inspection, we observed there was sufficient staff to support people.

Staff and people took part in a COVID-19 testing programme according to government guidance. All staff had completed relevant training in infection control and PPE. We saw staff using PPE correctly and safely. Handwashing guidance was displayed throughout the home and additional PPE was available for staff and visitors. The registered manager carried out infection control audits of all areas within the home in accordance with the provider's infection control policies. There was a daily cleaning schedule in place to ensure the premises was kept clean and to maintain hygiene, which helped prevent the spread of infections.

The provider kept up to date with government and local guidance on self-isolation, visiting and outbreaks to ensure they were following it correctly.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found