Ecclesholme

This report summarises an inspection of Ecclesholme, a residential care home that provides personal care to up to 50 individuals, including those living with dementia. The inspection focused on five key areas: safety, effectiveness of care, how caring the service is, responsiveness to needs, and leadership. Overall, the inspection found positive practices across all categories, with residents and their relatives highlighting the kindness and respect shown by staff. The home offers a good standard of accommodation with appropriate aids for mobility and safety, and residents receive their medications as prescribed. Robust systems are in place for safeguarding concerns and complaints, and staff feel supported and work well as a team.

Regarding safety, the home generally maintains good hygiene, though a minor issue with carpet odour was promptly addressed. Risk assessments are in place, and staff are trained in safeguarding, with residents and families feeling secure. Staffing levels are reviewed to meet current needs, and safe recruitment processes are followed. Medication management is handled effectively, with regular audits and appropriate staff competency checks. Learning from incidents is a focus, with systems in place for monitoring and reviewing accidents.

In terms of effective care, residents receive comprehensive initial assessments that inform their support plans, with input from professionals and families when needed. Staff receive relevant training, and residents feel they are well-trained. Mealtimes are a positive experience, with catering staff accommodating dietary needs, and residents enjoy the food and choices provided. The home works well with external healthcare professionals, ensuring residents receive timely and consistent care. The environment is adapted to meet the needs of residents, including those with dementia, with features like street-themed corridors to aid orientation. The service also operates within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring consent is sought and best interests are considered.

The service is noted for being caring, with staff treating residents kindly and respectfully, recognising their individuality. Interactions are warm and positive, fostering good relationships and mutual respect. Residents are involved in their care decisions and supported to maintain their independence and pursue their interests, including those from before moving to the home. The service also encourages and supports family life, with no restrictions on visiting times.

From a responsive perspective, residents are supported as individuals, with care plans reviewed in partnership with them and their families. While electronic care records are being implemented, they contain relevant information. A minor point for improvement was noted regarding the robustness of reviews following incidents to ensure care plans remain valid. The home supports residents in maintaining relationships and engaging in activities, though there was a recent gap in dedicated activity coordination which has since been addressed.

Finally, the home is well-led, with management providing clear oversight and monitoring. Plans are in place for continuous improvement, and immediate action is taken to address any shortfalls. Effective systems for recording and reporting safeguarding concerns and complaints are in place, and both residents and staff feel their views are heard and acted upon. Staff are supported in their roles, contributing to a positive team environment.