Clare Mount

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of Clare Mount following a recent inspection. The inspection focused on specific areas after concerns were raised regarding staffing, communication, safety, and person-centred care. While some improvements have been noted, the service continues to require improvement in key areas, and the provider has been asked to take specific actions to address the findings and enhance the quality of care provided.

Regarding safety, there were outstanding health and safety actions related to fire safety, the electrical installation, and the passenger lift that required completion. Infection control measures need further development, with some areas of the home requiring refurbishment. However, staff are clear on their safeguarding responsibilities and feel comfortable raising concerns, and medicines are generally well managed.

In terms of effectiveness, staff have received appropriate training, and residents are supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives in a way that is in their best interests. Care plans and medication management have seen improvements, with regular audits now being completed.

The care provided is generally viewed positively by relatives, who describe the staff as wonderful and caring. Communication with families has improved, with the introduction of relative meetings and newsletters fostering better engagement. Staff are noted to understand residents' needs and preferences well.

In relation to responsiveness, the service has made efforts to improve communication with families, including holding relative meetings and issuing newsletters. While there were past concerns about staff communication, this was not observed during the inspection, and the importance of speaking English at work has been addressed internally.

Concerningly, the service was not always well-led. While audits are conducted, they had not always identified significant risks relating to environmental safety and health professionals' recommendations. There have been delays in addressing high-risk work, and the provider has been asked to provide an action plan to address these critical safety concerns. Despite these challenges, staff roles are generally clear, and the team works collaboratively, with an ongoing improvement plan in place.