Fountains Care Centre

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an assessment of The Fountains Nursing Home following an inspection. The inspection focused on key areas to ensure the service is meeting legal requirements and providing quality care. Overall, the report highlights progress made since the last inspection, with improvements noted in several areas, though some aspects require continued attention. The document offers families insights into the home's performance across critical categories of care.

In terms of safety, while improvements have been made in medicine storage, there are still areas needing attention, specifically with medicine administration records and documentation for 'when required' medications. Safeguarding procedures are in place, staff are trained, and residents and their families generally feel safe and well-cared for. Recruitment processes ensure suitability of staff, and appropriate staffing levels are maintained. Infection control practices are good, and the home is clean and well-maintained, though minor repairs were promptly addressed. Risks to residents' health and safety are assessed and managed, with emergency plans in place and equipment servicing up to date.

Regarding how effective the care is, the service has improved significantly. Care plans are now person-centred, reflecting residents' needs and preferences, with detailed guidance for staff. Residents are supported to engage in meaningful activities, including the use of new technology and a sensory room, and efforts are made to prevent social isolation. Communication needs are assessed and met, with staff demonstrating a good understanding of how to support residents. The home has a clear complaints procedure, and feedback indicates concerns are addressed promptly. End-of-life care is provided, supported by trained nurses and external palliative care teams.

In terms of how caring the service is, residents and their families express high levels of satisfaction, describing staff as friendly, caring, and always willing to help. The home fosters a positive and inclusive culture where residents feel happy and well-occupied. There is a strong emphasis on person-centred care, ensuring that residents' individual needs and preferences guide the support they receive. Staff demonstrate a good understanding of residents' needs, often interpreting non-verbal cues effectively, and promote relationships with loved ones.

The responsiveness of the service has seen positive development. Residents' care plans are now consistently accurate and complete, reflecting their individual needs and preferences. The provision of activities has improved, with a focus on resident engagement and well-being, including the introduction of a popular interactive tablet. The home ensures communication needs are met, providing information in accessible formats and ensuring staff understand how best to communicate with each individual. Feedback suggests that concerns and complaints are handled effectively, with prompt action taken and a willingness to apologize when necessary.

Concerning how well-led the service is, there has been a marked improvement. A positive and open culture is evident, with good teamwork and strong support from management. The registered manager understands their responsibilities regarding transparency and honesty. Quality assurance systems are in place and regularly reviewed, with actions taken to address any identified issues. Learning from incidents and accidents is a continuous process, contributing to ongoing improvement. The management team collaborates effectively with external agencies, and staff are kept informed through regular meetings, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care.