Albert Road

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of Albert Road, a care home supporting up to seven individuals with acquired brain injuries. The inspection, conducted in November 2022, assessed the service against five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership. The report highlights a generally positive experience for residents, with staff noted for their respectful and polite interactions. Families of residents also provided positive feedback. The home has seen improvements since the last inspection, with staff reporting feeling well-supported and the provider demonstrating enhanced oversight of the service. The culture within the home has improved, and managers are approachable and responsive to feedback. The service supports residents to have maximum choice and control over their lives, encouraging independent decision-making and positive risk-taking.

In terms of safety, the home has implemented robust safeguarding policies and training, ensuring staff know how to report concerns and residents feel secure. Comprehensive risk assessments are in place, including detailed plans for fire safety and individual evacuations, which are regularly tested. While some maintenance and redecoration were noted as required, a schedule for these works is in place. Medicine management is safe and well-documented, with staff trained and regularly assessed for competency. Infection control measures are strong, with adequate supplies of personal protective equipment and thorough cleaning practices to protect residents and visitors.

Regarding effectiveness, residents receive comprehensive assessments before moving in, ensuring compatibility and tailored care plans. Staff receive thorough induction and ongoing training, including specialized modules for the specific health needs of residents. The service ensures residents have choices in their meals and are supported to maintain a balanced diet. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is strong, ensuring timely responses to health needs and effective support for appointments and managing conditions like diabetes. The environment is being adapted to meet residents' needs, with recent investments in outdoor spaces and ongoing improvements to internal areas. The service operates within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring residents are involved in decisions about their care and that necessary legal authorisations are in place.

The caring aspect of the service is well-regarded, with staff demonstrating respect, kindness, and understanding of individual needs and preferences. Residents are supported to maintain their independence and privacy, with their rooms reflecting their personalities. The service actively seeks and acts upon feedback from residents and their families, using "you said, we did" boards to demonstrate responsiveness to suggestions, such as the potential introduction of small animals. Residents are involved in their care reviews and have input into their care plans, ensuring their wishes are central to the support they receive.

In terms of responsiveness, care planning is highly personalised, with residents actively involved in decisions and choices, including community access. End-of-life wishes are explored and clearly documented in accessible formats. Communication needs are met through various accessible formats, including easy-read guides and picture cards, ensuring all residents can express their needs. Residents are supported to maintain relationships and engage in activities of their choosing, both within and outside the home, with consideration for their cultural and religious needs. The service responds proactively to any complaints or concerns, commissioning additional resources when necessary.

Finally, the service is well-led, with a culture that promotes high-quality, person-centred care. Feedback from families indicates satisfaction with the care provided and involvement in their loved one's wellbeing. The leadership team demonstrates strong oversight of the service, fostering an open and inclusive environment. Managers are approachable and receptive to feedback from both staff and residents, acting on it in a timely manner. The provider actively seeks to improve the service through ongoing learning and innovation.