Orchard Lodge

This report provides an overview of the care and support offered at Orchard Lodge, based on an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The inspection focused on ensuring the service adheres to the principles of 'Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture,' aiming to guarantee that individuals with learning disabilities or autism lead fulfilling, empowered lives with dignity and independence. Overall, the service demonstrated a strong commitment to these principles, with staff consistently prioritising residents' needs and preferences.

On safety, the home provides a clean, well-maintained environment that caters to residents' sensory and physical requirements. People are protected from harm, with sufficient skilled staff to ensure their well-being. While care records generally reflected observed support, there was an identified area for improvement in ensuring documentation consistently matched the person-centred care witnessed.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents are supported to maintain independence and control over their lives. Care plans are personalised, holistic, and regularly updated, reflecting a good understanding of individual needs, including communication and sensory requirements. Residents are actively involved in choices, such as meal planning and engaging in meaningful activities that align with their preferences.

Regarding caring practices, staff are consistently kind and compassionate, treating residents with respect and dignity. Residents and their families feel heard and valued, with active involvement in care planning. The service ensures residents can maintain connections with loved ones, adapting to restrictions by facilitating alternative communication methods like video calls.

In its responsiveness, Orchard Lodge ensures that residents' care, treatment, and support plans are tailored to their specific sensory, cognitive, and functional needs, aiming to meet their aspirations. The service actively seeks to understand residents' preferences and involve them in decisions whenever possible, ensuring support is aligned with their quality of life goals and best practices.

Finally, on leadership, the service has cultivated a learning culture where staff feel valued and empowered to suggest improvements. There is a transparent and open environment where concerns can be raised, and leaders work collaboratively with residents and their families to develop and enhance the service. This includes robust governance systems that ensure safety and high-quality care.