Corner House

This report summarises an inspection of Corner House, a care home providing accommodation and personal care for up to 57 older people, including those with dementia and physical health conditions. The inspection took place on 26 April 2018 and assessed the service against five key questions: is it safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led. The findings indicate a consistently good level of care across most areas, with the service being particularly well-led. The report highlights a dynamic and innovative management team with a clear vision and strong values, a positive and inclusive culture, and a robust system for quality assurance. People living at the home, their relatives, and healthcare professionals expressed confidence in the service and its leadership.

On safety, the home has systems in place to minimise risks, and sufficient staff are available to meet residents' needs, with thorough recruitment checks for new employees. Medicines are managed safely, with staff providing prompt, encouraging, and timely support to residents. Infection control measures are in place and regularly monitored, ensuring a clean environment. Risk assessments for daily living and specific health conditions are thorough, with clear plans for management. Emergency procedures, including fire evacuation, are supported by visible markers to identify residents' mobility levels.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are assessed and individual care plans are developed in consultation with them and their families. The home embraces technology to promote independence, such as a sensor to remind a resident to drink fluids, and has improved Wi-Fi to support electronic care planning and resident access to the internet. Staff receive relevant training, including on dementia and safeguarding, and are supported in their professional development, with opportunities for further qualifications. Regular supervision and appraisals contribute to staff competence and continuous improvement. Nutritional needs are well-assessed, with a variety of choices offered and support provided for those with specific dietary requirements, including swallowing difficulties.

Regarding how caring the service is, staff are described as compassionate, attentive, and respectful of residents' independence, privacy, and dignity. Residents are involved in decisions about their care, and their individual needs and preferences are taken into account. The service adheres to the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, supporting residents' choice and control in the least restrictive way possible.

On responsiveness, the service provides personalised care to meet assessed needs and preferences. Concerns and complaints are investigated, responded to, and used to improve the quality of care. Residents are supported in making decisions about their end-of-life care preferences.

In the area of being well-led, the management team is recognised as dynamic and innovative, setting high standards and leading by example. The service fosters a positive, open culture where residents are empowered to live their lives as they choose. A robust quality assurance system ensures effective oversight, and there is a strong emphasis on continuous improvement, with staff, residents, and their families expressing high confidence in the management.