Boston House

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) details an inspection of Boston House, a care home for individuals with complex needs following a brain injury. The inspection reviewed the safety and leadership of the service, with the overall rating requiring improvement. While the home has made some positive strides since the previous inspection, particularly in areas of safeguarding and infection control, certain aspects of medication management and governance require further attention and consistent improvement. The report highlights specific areas where the service is performing well and areas identified as needing development to ensure the highest standards of care.

On safety, while systems are in place to protect residents from abuse and risks are generally well-assessed and managed, there remain concerns regarding the safe storage and administration of some medications. Some medicines were not always stored at the correct temperature, and there were instances where the required time intervals between doses were not accurately recorded, posing a potential risk. However, staff are trained in safeguarding, and infection prevention and control measures are robust, ensuring a safe environment in these regards.

Regarding effective care, residents receive support that considers their individual needs, including nutrition and personal care. Staff are attentive to communication needs and ensure residents have maximum choice and control over their lives, acting in their best interests. The service also makes appropriate referrals to external professionals when needed, ensuring comprehensive care.

In terms of caring practices, residents and their relatives reported positive experiences, feeling well-treated and respected. Staff are noted to uphold residents' privacy and dignity, taking their views into account when agreeing on support plans. The home fosters a respectful environment where equality and diversity are acknowledged and valued.

The responsiveness of the service is demonstrated through appropriate complaint handling, with feedback used to inform improvements. The registered manager is accessible and conducts regular quality checks. However, the service is still working to fully embed all necessary improvements in its governance systems to ensure consistent responsiveness to all resident needs.

On the well-led aspect, while the registered manager is praised for their open, transparent, and person-centred approach, and staff feel supported to raise concerns, there are ongoing areas for improvement in governance and auditing systems. These systems had not always identified or resolved issues with medication management, and while improvements have been made, further refinement is necessary to ensure consistent oversight and to address all identified areas for development.