Maurice House

Maurice House, a residential care home for ex-Service personnel and their dependents, has been inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The inspection report, covering visits on 17 and 19 October 2017, provides an overview of the service's performance across five key areas. This summary aims to give families a clear, easy-to-understand picture of the findings, focusing on the practical aspects of care and support provided at Maurice House. The aim is to highlight the strengths of the home while also noting any areas identified for further development, ensuring a transparent and informative view for those seeking a care environment for their loved ones.

Regarding safety, residents expressed feeling secure, and the home effectively assessed and managed potential risks. Staff received training on safeguarding, felt confident reporting concerns, and robust recruitment processes were in place to ensure new employees were suitable. Sufficient staffing levels were maintained and monitored, with adjustments made as needed, and medicines were administered safely with appropriate checks. Regular health and safety checks of the environment and equipment were conducted to ensure a safe living space for all.

The effectiveness of care at Maurice House was demonstrated by staff possessing the necessary skills and knowledge. New staff underwent comprehensive induction and training, and ongoing professional development opportunities were provided. Staff received good support from management, and residents were empowered to make daily choices about their care, with staff understanding and applying principles of the Mental Capacity Act. Residents also enjoyed a healthy diet, with improvements noted in the catering, and staff worked collaboratively with healthcare professionals to ensure residents' health needs were met.

In terms of caring practices, residents reported feeling very well cared for, treated with respect, compassion, and kindness. The atmosphere within the home was described as happy, calm, warm, and relaxed, with staff dedicating time to ensure positive experiences for residents. There was a clear culture of empowering residents to live as fully as possible, and staff recognized the importance of social contact and companionship.

The responsiveness of the service was evident in how residents were supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives. Staff understood the importance of gaining consent and supporting people in the least restrictive way. Residents received information in accessible formats, and their end-of-life care wishes were discussed and respected. People had ample opportunities to engage in activities, follow their interests, and maintain relationships with family and friends. Feedback was actively sought from residents, relatives, and staff, and complaints were addressed thoroughly.

Finally, the service was found to be well-led, with leadership visible and approachable at all levels, fostering an open and transparent culture. The registered manager actively oversaw the quality of the service through regular audits and ensured compliance with regulatory requirements. The home maintained clear policies and procedures to guide staff, and necessary notifications were made to the CQC in a timely manner. The latest inspection report and rating were readily available to residents and the public.