Humfrey Lodge

Humfrey Lodge is a care home providing accommodation and personal care for up to 48 people, including those living with dementia. This report summarises findings from a CQC inspection focused on safety and leadership, prompted by concerns regarding staffing levels. The inspection aimed to ensure residents are kept safe, well-cared for, and that the service is managed effectively. Improvements have been noted since the previous inspection in areas like care plan accuracy and risk management.

On safety, the home has made significant improvements, with care plans now being accurate and detailed. Risks, such as choking, are thoroughly assessed and managed, and residents feel safe and well-protected from harm. Staffing levels are sufficient to meet residents' needs, with good team support and effective recruitment processes. Medicine management is safe, with trained senior staff administering medications and accurate record-keeping. Infection prevention and control measures are robust, ensuring a safe environment for residents and staff, and all necessary staff vaccinations are up to date.

In terms of how effective the care is, previous issues with care plans have been resolved, and information is now accurately recorded to meet residents' needs. While not directly inspected this time, no areas of concern were identified in previous comprehensive inspections for effectiveness, suggesting care is meeting resident needs.

Regarding caring practices, residents feel safe and well looked after by the staff. Feedback from relatives highlights that staff take good care of their loved ones and keep them informed, especially during challenging times. The service has adapted well to visitor restrictions, facilitating various types of visits to maintain connections.

In terms of responsiveness, the service has made efforts to communicate well with people and families, particularly regarding restrictions and changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Families feel well-informed and appreciate the efforts made to facilitate contact, such as window visits and Zoom meetings. The management team is accessible and communicative with relatives.

Regarding how well-led the service is, the management team is consistently effective and provides strong leadership. Staff and relatives report positive experiences with the manager and deputy manager, highlighting their accessibility and good communication. The service promotes a person-centred culture, and while some areas require refurbishment, a plan is in place. The provider understands and acts on its legal responsibilities, including notifying CQC of relevant incidents. Partnerships with external professionals are strong, and feedback from residents and relatives is actively sought to influence improvements.