Cooksditch House Nursing & Residential Home

Cooksditch House Nursing & Residential Home is a care facility that provides both residential and nursing care for up to 55 older people, including those living with dementia. The recent inspection report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) highlights significant improvements and consistent strengths across all key areas. This summary aims to give families a clear overview of the home's performance, focusing on the practical aspects of daily life and care for residents. The report reflects a positive and stable environment, with a strong emphasis on resident well-being and continuous improvement.

Regarding safety, the home has made substantial progress in medication management, with more frequent checks and audits now in place. Staffing levels have been adjusted to ensure residents receive prompt support, and comprehensive checks are conducted during staff recruitment. Systems are in place to safeguard residents from harm, and risks are thoroughly assessed, with clear guidance for staff on how to manage them. The home also has effective procedures for learning from incidents to prevent recurrence and maintain high standards of infection control.

In terms of how effective the care is, resident needs are assessed before admission, using nationally recognised tools for monitoring health and well-being. Staff receive ongoing training and support, including specialised training for dementia care, and robust systems are in place for staff supervision and appraisals. Nutritional needs are carefully monitored, with staff ensuring residents have choices at mealtimes and receive assistance when needed. Healthcare professionals have noted positive collaboration, with concerns about residents' health being promptly addressed and acted upon. The home also operates within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring residents' consent is sought and their best interests are upheld.

The service is caring, with staff demonstrating they know residents well and have developed kind and compassionate relationships. A dignity champion has been appointed to ensure staff treat everyone with respect. Residents' nutritional needs are met through assessed care plans and enjoyable mealtimes, with staff providing assistance as required. End-of-life care is managed with sensitivity, ensuring residents are supported and are able to have important people with them.

In relation to how responsive the service is, the home has undergone significant redecoration and refurbishment, improving the environment for residents. Signage has been enhanced to help those living with dementia navigate their surroundings. A new activity coordinator has introduced a programme of activities tailored to residents' interests, with outings and community links fostering engagement. Residents are involved in decorating their home, and their artwork is displayed. The home also actively seeks feedback from residents and their families and acts upon it, with a clear process for handling complaints.

Finally, the service is well-led, with both the registered manager and provider described as approachable. Feedback from residents and their relatives is regularly sought and acted upon, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. Systems for assessing and monitoring the quality of the service have been strengthened, ensuring that any shortfalls are identified and addressed effectively. Lessons are learned from incidents and complaints, with a clear process for reflection and implementation of changes.