Miramar Care Home

Miramar Care Home is a residential care home that provides personal care for older people and those living with dementia. This report details findings from an inspection conducted in August 2019, building on previous feedback. The inspection assessed whether the service is Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led, with a focus on improvements made since the last review. The home accommodates up to 122 residents, and at the time of inspection, 34 were receiving personal care. The report highlights a positive overall experience for residents, who felt welcomed and safe, describing the home as "the next best thing" to their own.

On safety, the home has made significant improvements, particularly in staff recruitment and medicine management, addressing issues from the previous inspection. There are now sufficient, well-trained staff, robust recruitment checks, and safer medication administration processes, including detailed records and regular checks. Risk assessments are thorough and involve residents and their families, with a new call bell system installed to improve response times.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff now receive regular supervision and training, enhancing their skills in areas such as end-of-life care and dementia support. Care planning is comprehensive, based on thorough assessments and individual needs, ensuring residents receive tailored support, including personalized dining experiences and prompt access to healthcare professionals.

Regarding caring practices, staff are noted for their kindness and compassion, treating residents with dignity and respect. People feel well-supported, and their equality and diversity needs are understood and respected. Residents are actively involved in their care plans and decisions, promoting their independence.

The service demonstrates responsiveness by supporting residents to have maximum choice and control over their lives, with care plans adapted to individual needs and preferences. Residents are encouraged to participate in a range of activities, and their end-of-life preferences are discussed, ensuring their wishes are known and respected.

Finally, the service is well-led, with a management team actively involved in quality oversight and improvement. Regular checks are conducted, and feedback from residents and staff is sought and acted upon. Records are now accurate and complete, and the registered manager is knowledgeable about their responsibilities and communicates effectively with regulatory bodies. While the overall report is positive, it notes the installation of a new call bell system with "inevitable teething problems" and that new, easier-to-use handsets have been ordered.