New Lane

New Lane is a specialist short-term care home designed to support individuals experiencing mental health crises in a comfortable, home-like environment. The recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) focused on specific areas following a notification of an incident. Overall, the report highlights the home's commitment to providing a supportive and effective service, with findings across the inspected areas indicating a consistently good standard of care. The service aims to help residents build skills to manage their mental health, enabling them to avoid hospitalisation and focus on recovery.

Regarding the safety of residents, the home maintains robust systems to prevent abuse, and people living there feel secure. Thorough assessments and clear risk management plans are in place, ensuring that potential risks are identified and addressed. Staff are safely recruited with appropriate training, and the staffing levels are flexible to meet individual needs, with residents feeling well-supported at all times. Medicines are managed safely with appropriate policies and regular audits, and effective infection control measures are in place, including staff training on COVID-19 and PPE usage, which residents have observed positively.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are assessed comprehensively before their stay and monitored continuously. Risk assessments are documented clearly, and staff are well-informed about the care plans. The service ensures that lessons are learned from incidents and complaints, contributing to ongoing improvements in the support provided. Environmental and health and safety checks are up to date, further contributing to a safe living environment.

When considering the caring aspect, the support provided is highly person-centred and inclusive, with staff empowering residents to regain control over their lives. Residents express feeling no pressure to do things they don't want to and find the home a supportive network to help them become stronger. Feedback received praises the kindness and non-judgmental understanding of the staff, helping residents feel more positive about their future.

The responsiveness of the service is demonstrated through its open and honest approach to complaints and suggestions, using this feedback for continuous improvement. Residents can complete discharge forms to share what worked well and areas for enhancement. The home actively considers residents' equality characteristics, supporting cultural, religious, and dietary needs, and providing practical assistance like help with benefits. Staff are described as approachable and human, offering the right advice.

Finally, regarding how well-led the service is, there is strong leadership that promotes high-quality, person-centred care. The service is consistently managed, with a culture that supports learning and innovation. Notifications are submitted to the CQC promptly, and quality assurance systems are in place to maintain high standards. Staff understand their roles and responsibilities, and the service actively engages with residents, the public, and staff. Continuous learning is driven by audit results and resident feedback, leading to improvements such as rectifying Wi-Fi issues. The home also fosters strong partnerships with various agencies and professionals, which has been beneficial for both residents and staff training.