St Martha's

This report provides an overview of the CQC inspection of St Martha's, a home for older people with mental health needs. The inspection assessed the service across five key areas: safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led. Overall, the service demonstrated strengths in several of these areas, with inspectors noting positive practices and staff dedication. However, the report also identified specific points for improvement to enhance the overall care experience.

On safety, while the home maintained a clean and well-equipped environment with adequate staffing levels and robust risk management, inspectors found that residents did not have open access to water in communal areas. This blanket restriction meant residents had to ask staff for drinks, and this was not individually assessed or logged, representing a key area for immediate review and improvement.

Regarding effectiveness, the care provided was found to be of a good standard. Staff conducted thorough assessments, developed personalized care plans, and offered a range of treatments aligned with national guidance. The multidisciplinary team worked collaboratively, ensuring comprehensive support and effective communication with external agencies.

The caring aspect of the service was also positively noted. Staff treated residents with compassion and kindness, respecting their privacy and dignity. Residents were actively involved in their care planning, and their feedback was sought through community meetings. Families and carers were also kept appropriately informed and involved, with specific mention of the ward manager’s efforts to include them in discussions about resident needs and preferences.

In terms of responsiveness, the service ensured that residents had comfortable private spaces, with individual bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. The environment was being audited for dementia-friendliness, with plans for further improvements. Staff also provided tailored support, including communication, advocacy, and cultural and spiritual assistance, meeting the diverse needs of all residents.

Finally, the service was considered well-led. Leaders demonstrated strong understanding of the service, were approachable, and fostered a positive vision and values among staff. Staff reported feeling respected and supported, with a culture that promoted equality and diversity. While governance processes were effective in managing performance and risks, the leadership team needed to recognise and address the blanket restriction on water access as a governance oversight.