Bridge House Residential Home

This report details the findings from a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection of Bridge House Residential Home, which provides personal care for up to 30 individuals, including those with dementia. The inspection focused on the safety and leadership of the home following some concerns raised. Overall, the report highlights positive aspects of care and management, while also identifying areas for continued development. The home aims to offer a supportive and person-centred environment for its residents.

Regarding the safety of the service, residents and visitors consistently reported feeling safe and well-looked after. Staff were observed to be kind and respectful, attending to needs promptly. Recruitment processes included essential checks, and there were sufficient staff numbers available. While internal and external safety checks were conducted, an updated legionella risk assessment was noted as a specific action point to be completed. Medication was managed safely, with good support from local healthcare professionals. The home also maintained good standards of cleanliness and infection prevention.

On the effectiveness of the care provided, the report indicates that residents were supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives, with staff always acting in their best interests and using the least restrictive methods. Care plans and risk assessments were in place to guide staff effectively. Residents' prescribed medications were handled securely, and the home benefited from strong collaborative relationships with local GPs and pharmacists to meet health and medication needs.

The caring aspect of the service was highlighted by residents and visitors who spoke very positively about their experiences. Staff were described as kind, respectful, and always having time for residents. Families felt able to visit and were kept informed about their relatives' well-being, with effective communication channels like a WhatsApp group during lockdown being particularly valued. Residents felt heard and respected, with their preferences actively incorporated into their care.

In terms of responsiveness, the home actively encouraged residents to pursue their own chosen activities, with staff providing a range of opportunities. Feedback from residents and visitors was actively sought and acted upon, leading to improvements such as menu ideas and the introduction of a tuck shop. The management systems ensured that complaints and concerns were recorded and addressed appropriately, with necessary information shared with external agencies when required.

Finally, the leadership and management of the home were found to be strong. The registered manager, in post for six months, demonstrated awareness of her responsibilities and kept relevant parties informed. Senior management actively monitored and reviewed the service, with action plans in place for ongoing improvements, including enhancements to the environment and staff training. Staff felt well-supported by management, and residents expressed satisfaction with the overall running of the home, describing it as "very well run." The home also displayed its CQC rating as legally required, demonstrating transparency.