Oakdale

This CQC report details an inspection of Oakdale care home, a service providing accommodation and personal care for up to 27 individuals aged 65 and over, including those living with dementia. The inspection assessed the home against five key areas: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led. Overall, the report highlights a service that is deeply committed to providing person-centred care, with staff actively working with residents, families, and professionals to tailor support to individual needs and preferences. The findings indicate a home where residents are encouraged to remain independent and involved in decision-making, with a strong emphasis on dignity and respect.

On safety, the home has robust systems in place to protect residents from harm, with regular risk assessments and monitoring ensuring people can live independently and safely. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding and emergency procedures, and there are sufficient staffing levels to meet residents' needs. Medicines are managed safely with regular audits, and the home maintains a clean and tidy environment, supported by good infection control practices. The management team learns from incidents to prevent reoccurrences.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are well-assessed and their care plans are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect their preferences. Staff receive comprehensive induction and ongoing training, including specialist skills, ensuring they can provide appropriate care. Residents and their families generally express satisfaction with the food, with choices offered and individual dietary needs catered for. The home works effectively with external healthcare professionals, ensuring timely access to necessary services and treatments.

Regarding how caring the service is, residents and their relatives consistently describe staff as kind, compassionate, and respectful. Staff are knowledgeable about individual needs and preferences, offering comfort and reassurance when required. Residents are actively involved in decisions about their care, with their privacy, dignity, and independence being priorities. Staff encourage residents to do as much as they can for themselves, supporting them to live fulfilling lives.

The service is exceptionally responsive, demonstrating an outstanding ability to adapt care to meet individual needs and preferences. This is shown through innovative approaches to supporting people through challenging situations, such as adjusting mobility support or creating personalised activities based on life history. The home also offers flexible respite care. Residents are encouraged to pursue their interests and take part in meaningful, socially and culturally relevant activities, with many wishes fulfilled. Family and friend connections are actively maintained, with visitors always made to feel welcome.

Finally, on how well-led the service is, the registered manager shows strong leadership and a passion for high-quality care, supported by a positive and encouraging culture for staff development. Residents and relatives feel comfortable raising concerns and providing feedback, which is actively sought and acted upon by the management team. The home operates with clear policies and procedures that support best practice in care delivery.