Oakbank Care Home

Oakbank Care Home provides nursing and personal care for up to 55 residents, including those with dementia. This inspection report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) gives an overview of the care provided and the findings across key areas. The report highlights the home's commitment to ensuring residents feel safe, well-supported, and respected in their daily lives, with a focus on person-centred care and effective management.

Regarding safety, the home has robust safeguarding procedures, and staff are trained to protect residents from harm, with timely responses to concerns. Medicines are managed safely, and comprehensive risk assessments are regularly reviewed, ensuring potential hazards are mitigated. The environment is maintained to a high standard with regular health and safety checks, and staffing levels are sufficient to meet residents' needs, with a focus on safely recruiting and training staff, including agency personnel. Infection prevention and control measures are also well-established, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.

In terms of effective care, residents' needs are thoroughly assessed before admission, and care plans are developed to meet individual requirements, incorporating best practices. Staff receive comprehensive induction and ongoing training to ensure they have the necessary skills and experience. Residents are supported to maintain a balanced diet, with choices offered and nutritional intake monitored. The home effectively collaborates with external health professionals and agencies to ensure timely and consistent care. The service's design accommodates mobility needs, and ongoing renovations are planned to enhance the environment further, including dementia-friendly features.

The caring aspect of the service is demonstrated through staff's respectful and kind interactions with residents, treating them with dignity and promoting their independence. Staff have a good understanding of residents' individual needs, preferences, and wishes, including cultural requirements. Feedback is actively sought and acted upon, with residents and their relatives feeling involved in care decisions. Privacy is consistently maintained, and residents' preferences regarding personal care are respected.

The home is responsive to residents' needs, with care plans developed collaboratively and reviewed regularly to ensure they remain person-centred. The service addresses residents' communication needs, providing information in various formats and ensuring accessibility. Systems are in place to effectively manage complaints and concerns, with lessons learned and implemented to drive improvements. There is a dedicated activities coordinator who plans a range of engaging activities tailored to individual interests and abilities, ensuring residents can maintain social connections and pursue their hobbies. End of life care is provided with sensitivity and in line with residents' wishes.

Finally, the service is well-led, with a registered manager who fosters a positive and person-centred culture. Residents and staff feel supported and able to raise concerns, which are addressed effectively and fairly. The leadership team actively promotes high-quality care and encourages learning and innovation. Regular audits and feedback mechanisms contribute to the continuous improvement of the service, ensuring a consistently high standard of care for all residents.