Silvermere Care Home

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of Silvermere Care Home following an inspection on 25 February 2021. The inspection focused on infection prevention and control practices in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights how the home has adapted to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and staff during this challenging period, examining the home's procedures and practices across key areas of care.

In terms of safety, the home has demonstrated robust infection prevention and control measures. This includes ensuring visitors are protected from infection spread, adhering to shielding and social distancing guidelines, and safely admitting new residents. Staff are using personal protective equipment effectively, and the home has access to regular testing for both residents and staff. The premises are maintained to a high standard of hygiene, with protocols in place to prevent and manage infection outbreaks, and the home's infection control policy is up to date.

Regarding effectiveness, the care provided has been consistently supported by staff, who residents described as invaluable, particularly during periods when family visits were restricted. Information about COVID-19 has been shared with residents in accessible ways, and they have been given choices regarding the use of personal protective equipment. Residents have been able to see a doctor when feeling unwell, with both virtual and necessary face-to-face assessments available, and visiting professionals undergo screening.

On caring, residents reported feeling well looked after, with staff providing dedicated one-to-one support, including activities, during isolation periods. Meals were delivered to rooms, and efforts were made to maintain social connections and engagement despite restrictions. The home has also made arrangements to facilitate safe visiting, both in dedicated rooms and through a newly installed visiting pod in the garden.

In terms of responsiveness, the home has actively adapted its services to meet current needs. Communal areas have been safely reopened with social distancing measures in place, and activities have restarted with limited attendance and additional sessions to ensure everyone can participate. The home has also implemented additional cleaning schedules and has a contingency plan in place to manage potential staff absences.

Concerning how well-led the service is, the provider has updated its infection prevention and control policies in response to COVID-19 and conducts regular audits. Risk assessments have been carried out for vulnerable individuals, including staff, with measures to reduce risks. Staff retention has been good, with low sickness levels contributing to a consistent care team, and agency staff only work at Silvermere, undergoing the same screening as permanent staff.