Admirals Reach Care Home

Admirals Reach Care Home's recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in August 2018 found the service to be good overall. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the care provided, focusing on key areas that families consider when choosing a care home for their loved ones. It highlights the commitment of the staff and management to ensuring a safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led environment. The inspection process involved speaking with residents, relatives, and staff, as well as reviewing care records and operational procedures to gain a thorough understanding of the service.

On safety, residents reported feeling secure, and staff demonstrated a strong understanding of safeguarding responsibilities, with clear procedures in place to manage risks and prevent abuse. Medicines were handled competently by trained staff, and recruitment processes ensured sufficient, safely hired personnel were employed. While the home generally maintained good infection control practices, a few instances of poor cleanliness were noted in bathrooms on one unit, which were subsequently addressed.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff received appropriate training and supervision, enabling them to competently meet residents' diverse needs, including those related to nursing and daily living. Residents were supported to eat, drink, and access healthcare professionals to maintain their well-being, with careful attention paid to mobility support and PEG feeding care, although a recommendation was made to review best practices for PEG tube flushing.

The care provided at Admirals Reach was found to be compassionate. Staff were described as kind and attentive, treating residents with dignity and respect while actively encouraging their independence and supporting meaningful relationships. Residents were involved in decisions about their care, ensuring their preferences and wishes were known and respected.

Regarding responsiveness, residents' needs were holistically assessed and documented in person-centred care plans, ensuring their preferences were known and upheld. The service facilitated resident engagement in chosen activities, and a clear system was in place for addressing complaints, with feedback actively used to drive improvements, including in end-of-life care wishes.

In terms of leadership and management, the service was well-led by a committed and visible management team that fostered good staff morale and clear accountability. Robust quality assurance systems were in place to monitor and enhance the safety and effectiveness of the service, with residents and their relatives actively involved in contributing to ongoing improvements.