Acacia House - Tenterden

This report provides an overview of the CQC inspection of Acacia House, which took place on August 1st and 2nd, 2017. The inspection aimed to assess the overall quality of care provided, focusing on five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership. The report details the findings from the inspection, including observations of staff interactions, care planning, and the overall environment. It highlights improvements made since the previous inspection, while also identifying areas where further development is needed to ensure the highest standards of care.

On safety, the home ensures sufficient staff are on duty to keep residents secure and has robust procedures for vetting new employees. Risks are identified and managed effectively to promote independence, and medicines are administered and stored safely. However, there was an instance where a resident was temporarily unaccounted for, prompting a review and update of policies, and a minor issue was noted regarding the completeness of background checks for some overseas staff.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' rights are protected through the appropriate application of the Mental Capacity Act, and staff receive effective training and supervision. Healthcare needs are monitored, with access to external professionals provided when necessary, and residents are generally satisfied with the quality and quantity of food. A point for improvement was identified concerning the incorporation of specialist dietary advice into care plans and the superficial evaluation of some care plans.

The service is caring, with staff demonstrating sensitivity in protecting residents' privacy and dignity. Interactions are kind, compassionate, and respectful, making residents feel heard and supported to maintain their independence where possible. The positive relationships observed between staff and residents created a comfortable and at-ease atmosphere.

Regarding responsiveness, care plans are personalised, taking into account residents' individual choices and preferences, and residents are encouraged to participate in activities they enjoy. Staff have a good understanding of residents' needs, and there is a clear complaints system that residents and their relatives are aware of, with feedback being taken into account.

Finally, on being well-led, the home has effective audit systems and actively seeks feedback from residents, relatives, and staff, acting upon suggestions for improvement. Significant events are appropriately reported to the CQC, and staff feel clear about their roles and well-supported by management. An area noted for improvement involved ensuring the activity coordinator's participation in staff meetings to offer a broader perspective on resident well-being.