Oakdene Rest Home

This summary provides an overview of the recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection report for Oakdene Rest Home. The report assesses the care provided against five key questions: safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led. It highlights the home's commitment to providing a good standard of care, with a particular focus on how well the service is managed and kept safe for its residents. Families seeking a care home will find information here about the operational standards and the quality of care delivery, helping to inform their decision-making process.

On safety, the home ensures residents are protected from avoidable harm. Risk assessments are thorough and kept up-to-date, with clear actions for staff to follow. Medicines are managed securely and accurately, supported by a dedicated new dispensing room and regular audits. Recruitment processes are robust, ensuring staff are suitable to work with residents, and there are sufficient staff to meet everyone's needs. Safeguarding training is current, and staff understand how to recognise and respond to any concerns. Infection control measures are consistently applied, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. A minor point for development relates to fully complying with recording specific months of past employment or unemployment during staff recruitment checks, which the manager has committed to addressing.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents receive personalised support tailored to their individual needs. Staff possess the necessary skills and training to identify and address any concerns promptly. Care plans are regularly updated and securely stored, containing relevant information to ensure residents' safety and respect their choices. Referrals to healthcare professionals and external agencies are made appropriately when residents require additional support.

Regarding the caring aspect, residents are actively engaged with each other and staff. Relatives express satisfaction with the care their loved ones receive, noting that they are safe and happy. The staff's dedication and attentiveness contribute to a positive atmosphere within the home.

The service demonstrates responsiveness by quickly identifying changes in residents' needs and ensuring appropriate referrals are made to healthcare professionals. Care plans are consistently updated to reflect these changes, ensuring continuous and effective support.

In terms of leadership, the service is well-led, with clear roles and responsibilities for the registered manager and staff. Regular audits are conducted to monitor and improve the quality and safety of the service. Staff feel supported by management and find them approachable. The home fosters a positive, person-centred culture where residents and their families feel heard and valued. There are systems in place to engage with residents, relatives, and staff, encouraging feedback and participation in the service's development. The duty of candour is understood, with open communication maintained with relatives about any incidents.