Newlands

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an assessment of Newlands, a residential care home for up to eight adults with learning disabilities, autism, or mental health needs. The inspection focused on evaluating the safety, effectiveness, caring nature, responsiveness, and leadership of the service. Overall, the report highlights significant improvements since the last inspection, with positive findings across all key areas. This summary aims to give families a clear overview of the service's performance and key observations.

Regarding safety, systems are in place to protect residents from harm, with risks assessed and managed effectively. While there were initial concerns about staff turnover and the use of agency staff, the home has been actively recruiting new team members and ensures consistent agency staff cover when needed. The registered manager is also in discussions with the local authority to review funding that would allow for increased staffing levels to better meet evolving resident needs. Infection prevention and control measures, including COVID-19 protocols, are managed well, and residents and staff are supported with vaccinations.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are assessed thoroughly, ensuring care plans align with best practices and legal guidance. Staff receive comprehensive training and development, with regular updates and competency checks. The service ensures residents are supported to maintain a balanced diet and have access to necessary healthcare professionals and appointments in a timely manner. The environment has been refurbished to be more homely and accessible, with residents involved in decisions about its decoration.

When looking at how caring the service is, staff are consistently described as treating residents with kindness, respect, and compassion, fostering good relationships. They demonstrate a strong understanding of residents' individual needs, preferences, and potential triggers for anxiety, providing appropriate support. Residents are encouraged to express their views and are involved in decisions about their daily care, with more complex decisions made in their best interests with the involvement of relevant individuals.

In terms of how responsive the service is, care plans are personalised to reflect individual preferences and priorities. Progress has been made in engaging residents in important conversations about their wishes for end-of-life care. The service actively supports residents to access the community, including places of interest and educational opportunities, promoting their independence and social inclusion.

Finally, concerning how well-led the service is, improved systems are in place to identify and manage risks to service quality and drive continuous improvement. Regular audits are conducted to assess what is working well and areas needing attention. The registered manager and staff are committed to fostering a positive culture, which has been noted as improving, leading to residents feeling more confident and empowered. Residents are encouraged to take an active role in promoting good practice within the home.