Ami Group - The Knoll Unit and Ami Court Unit

This report details the findings from a recent inspection of Ami Group, a care home providing personal and nursing care. The inspection focused on key areas to ensure the well-being and safety of residents. While many aspects of care were noted positively, the report highlights specific areas where improvements are needed to ensure consistent high standards. Residents and their families shared their experiences, offering valuable insights into daily life at the home.

Regarding the safety of residents, the home has implemented measures to prevent infection and ensure safe staffing levels with appropriate recruitment checks. Risks to health and welfare are assessed, and protocols are in place for staff to follow. Accidents and incidents are reviewed, leading to actions that have helped reduce reoccurrences. However, some visiting protocols did not consistently follow government guidance, and not all residents were initially offered the option to receive visitors in their rooms. Additionally, there were instances where medical treatments took place in communal areas, which did not fully support infection control best practices or resident privacy. Medication records also required more accuracy in some cases.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents are supported to make choices and control their lives in a way that is least restrictive and in their best interests. They have had opportunities to share their opinions in meetings, influencing aspects like the activity schedule and the menu, with their suggestions being acted upon.

On the caring aspect, residents generally feel safe and believe staff know how to support them effectively. Relatives also confirmed their perception of safety for their loved ones. Staff are trained to identify and report safeguarding concerns, and they feel confident that management will take appropriate action.

When considering how responsive the service is, residents have been involved in shaping their experience, with suggestions for activities and the menu being implemented. The service is working with external agencies to provide necessary professional services for residents.

In terms of how well-led the service is, the management team has been informed about necessary regulatory requirements, such as displaying inspection ratings, though this was not initially done. While there's an "open door" policy, feedback from relatives has been mixed, with some feeling unwelcome. The management team's awareness of infection control risks in communal treatment areas and adherence to visiting guidance needed improvement. However, the manager has been open with relatives about care changes and any incidents, and residents are involved in regular meetings to express their views.