Lever Edge Care Home

Lever Edge Care Home offers residential accommodation and support for up to 81 individuals, spread across three distinct units designed to cater to varying needs, including those living with dementia. The recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessed the home across five key areas: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led. This report summarises the findings for families seeking a care home for their loved ones.

On safety, residents and their families consistently reported feeling secure, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and reporting any concerns appropriately. Staffing levels are managed to ensure adequate support, and thorough documentation and review of accidents and incidents help to prevent recurrences. The home maintains high standards of cleanliness and infection control, and medication is managed safely by trained staff. A minor point for improvement noted during the inspection was the need for fire drills to involve actual evacuation from specific areas.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff receive comprehensive training and ongoing support, which residents and their families felt equipped them to provide excellent care. The home has made significant improvements to its environment, including themed corridors and dedicated rooms, to better support residents, particularly those with dementia. Residents enjoy a varied and nutritious diet with ample choices, though there was a suggestion for more detailed recording of food and fluid intake to ensure accuracy. Staff are well-versed in the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring residents' choices and best interests are at the forefront of care planning.

The care provided at Lever Edge is described as exceptionally kind, compassionate, and respectful. Residents are treated with dignity, and their independence is actively promoted. Staff build strong relationships with residents, understanding their individual needs and preferences. This nurturing approach extends to respecting equality and diversity, as evidenced by inclusive events. Residents and their families are kept well-informed and involved in all care decisions.

Regarding responsiveness, the home effectively meets residents' needs through well-organised care planning and delivery, with significant improvements noted in this area since the last inspection. Residents and their families reported being involved in care planning and feeling informed about any changes. The home has a clear system for managing complaints and feedback, though residents indicated they have not needed to use this due to satisfaction with the service.

Finally, the home is well-led, with a management team that is approachable and supportive of staff. Regular quality monitoring systems are in place, and any identified areas for improvement are actively addressed and integrated into a development plan. Staff and residents' relatives alike expressed positive views about the leadership and overall management of the home.