Oakleigh

This report summarises an inspection of Oakleigh, a care home providing residential care for older people with dementia. The inspection focused on assessing the five key areas of care provision: safety, effectiveness, caring approach, responsiveness, and leadership. It follows up on previous concerns and examines the improvements made since the last review, incorporating feedback from residents, their families, and staff to provide a comprehensive overview of the service.

On safety, inspectors found that robust procedures were in place to protect residents from abuse, with staff well-trained and aware of their responsibilities. Risk assessments were detailed and kept up-to-date, guiding staff on how to minimise potential hazards, and an effective system was in place to manage and learn from accidents and incidents to prevent their recurrence. Medicine administration and storage were managed safely and competently, with sufficient staff on duty and thorough background checks conducted for all new employees. Emergency procedures, including fire drills and personal evacuation plans, were regularly practiced, and the premises were maintained to a high standard of cleanliness and safety, with infection control measures diligently followed.

Regarding effectiveness, residents and their families reported satisfaction with the care provided, noting that staff possessed a good understanding of individual needs. The home provided comprehensive training and ongoing support for its staff, including regular supervision and appraisals, ensuring they were equipped to meet residents' needs effectively. Care plans were personalised, based on thorough pre-admission assessments, and reflected current needs. Staff demonstrated a strong understanding of the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, ensuring decisions were made in residents' best interests and with their consent whenever possible. Residents were supported to access necessary healthcare services, with effective liaison between staff and external health and social care professionals.

In terms of caring practices, residents and their relatives consistently described staff as kind and respectful, highlighting that their choices, preferences, privacy, and dignity were always upheld. People and their families were actively involved in care planning and decision-making processes, ensuring that care truly reflected individual wishes and values. Staff also demonstrated an understanding of equality and diversity, ensuring care was delivered in a way that respected each person's unique background and needs.

On responsiveness, the service recognised the importance of stimulation and social interaction for residents. Care plans were regularly reviewed and updated, ensuring they remained person-centred and accurately reflected current needs, with specific end-of-life care plans in place to honour residents' preferences. Residents and their families knew how to raise concerns and felt confident that complaints would be addressed through a clear and accessible policy and procedure.

Finally, concerning leadership, feedback from residents and their families was positive regarding the manager and staff, indicating a supportive and caring culture within the home. The service had effective systems for monitoring the quality of care, and this information was used to drive meaningful improvements. Regular communication ensured staff understood their roles and responsibilities, and the home collaborated effectively with health and social care professionals and commissioners to ensure the best outcomes for residents.