Reinbek

Reinbek is a residential care home that was home to 36 older residents at the time of the inspection, out of a maximum capacity of 46. The service is spread across two floors and divided into four distinct units, each featuring its own kitchenette, lounge, and dining area, allowing residents freedom of movement while adapting to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic through cohort separation. This targeted inspection focused primarily on infection prevention, control measures, and visiting arrangements to ensure residents remained protected during these specific circumstances.

When looking at how the service keeps people safe, the home maintained a clean environment with readily available personal protective equipment that staff used correctly and in line with current guidance. Staff and residents had access to regular testing, and the facility followed rules around shielding, social distancing, and staff vaccination requirements. However, inspectors noted a specific area for improvement regarding administrative practices, finding that the provider was not recording comprehensive visitor information or retaining those details for an appropriate period, which the home manager agreed to review.

Regarding how effectively the service operates, the facility managed infection outbreaks well and implemented up-to-date prevention policies alongside a physical layout that promoted overall hygiene. The provider also had measures ready to mitigate staffing pressures related to the pandemic to ensure continuity of care.

To ensure residents felt cared for, the home actively helped individuals and their families understand isolation processes and combated loneliness by arranging video calls with loved ones and providing dedicated support time from assigned staff members.

To remain responsive to the needs of residents and their families during restrictions, the provider installed a ground-floor visiting pod that allowed relatives to visit safely through a secure glass screen and a two-way speaker system, successfully facilitating visits in accordance with current guidance.

Leadership was demonstrated through the management's proactive approach to infection control and their willingness to engage with inspectors regarding areas for growth, such as improving how visitor details are logged and maintained for the future.