18 Acorn Avenue

This inspection report for 18 Acorn Avenue offers a detailed look at the care provided to residents, focusing on key areas of service quality. The findings reflect significant improvements since the previous inspection, with particular attention paid to how residents are kept safe and how the service is managed. The report highlights the dedication of the staff and management in fostering a supportive environment and ensuring residents' needs are met effectively.

On safety, the home has implemented robust systems to protect residents from harm, including thorough safeguarding procedures and effective training for staff. Improvements in maintenance and refurbishment have enhanced infection control, making the premises cleaner and more hygienic. Staff are well-trained in risk assessment, promoting independence and positive risk-taking to encourage residents' engagement in activities. While medication storage required a recommendation for improvement, generally, systems were followed to ensure safe administration and recording.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff are described as delivering personalised care aligned with residents' individual needs and preferences, promoting a good quality of life. They understand residents' communication styles and have built strong rapport, supporting relationships and interests. Safeguarding is a priority, with staff knowledgeable in identifying and reporting abuse, and lessons are learned from incidents to drive practice improvements. Recruitment and training processes are robust, ensuring residents are supported by competent staff, and effective infection control measures are in place.

Regarding caring practices, staff demonstrate genuine interest in residents' well-being, being kind and nurturing, which results in residents feeling at ease, happy, and engaged. Residents are supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives, with staff acting in their best interests and in the least restrictive way possible. They are also supported to access healthcare services and live healthy lives.

The service's responsiveness is evident in how residents are supported to develop and maintain relationships, pursue interests, and participate in meaningful activities. Care plans are tailored to individual needs, ensuring a high quality of life. Staff understand and respect residents' diverse communication styles and are dedicated to promoting their independence and well-being.

Finally, concerning how well-led the service is, there's a clear focus on fostering a positive culture where staff feel valued and supported, leading to improved outcomes for residents. The registered manager possesses the necessary skills and knowledge, and there are effective governance arrangements in place to monitor quality and safety, driving continuous improvement. While staff are motivated and have confidence in management, there is a noted area for improvement in the frequency and clarity of communication from the registered manager to relatives regarding resident updates.