St Thomas

St Thomas is a care home providing nursing and personal care for up to 72 older people, including those with dementia. This recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) focused on assessing the home's safety, effectiveness, caring approach, responsiveness, and leadership. The findings suggest a home that has made significant positive strides in many areas, particularly in its leadership and the effectiveness of the care provided, though some aspects of safety require further attention and development. Families looking for a care setting will find valuable insights into the daily experiences of residents and the home's operational practices.

In terms of safety, inspectors identified some areas where record-keeping needed improvement, particularly concerning meal texture modifications and the clear communication of dietary needs in the kitchen. While most risk assessments were thorough, one care plan related to falls lacked specific detail on equipment use, though staff could verbalize the approach. Recruitment processes are generally robust, but a minor discrepancy was noted. Staffing levels are generally sufficient, with a stable team and proactive recruitment, though at times staff were observed to be rushed during mealtimes on one floor. Medicines management saw some initial recording gaps that were promptly addressed, with storage and stock management being well-handled. Infection control measures were found to be strong. Safeguarding policies are up-to-date, and staff demonstrate a good understanding of reporting concerns. The home has improved its incident reporting and learning from events.

Regarding the effectiveness of the care, residents' needs and preferences are well-assessed, with most care plans providing comprehensive guidance for staff. There's a notable improvement in staff training compliance and a strong emphasis on supervision. Staff have a good understanding of dementia care and communication needs, with activities tailored to engage residents. Mealtimes in the dining room were observed as positive social occasions, though some staff supporting residents in bedrooms appeared rushed. The home collaborates effectively with external healthcare agencies and has made commendable improvements to the building's decoration to be dementia-friendly, enhancing safety and comfort. Staff demonstrate a good understanding of mental capacity principles, consistently seeking consent and supporting residents in decision-making, with immediate resolution of any inconsistencies noted in capacity assessments.

The home's responsiveness ensures residents are supported to have visitors and maintain connections with loved ones. The service effectively manages admissions and facilitates transitions to other settings when appropriate, working well with GPs and mental health teams.

In terms of leadership, the home has a new management team that has been proactive in addressing concerns and fostering a positive, inclusive atmosphere. Staff feel supported, encouraged, and that senior leaders are good role models. The quality assurance processes are robust, identifying areas for improvement, and there's a clear plan for continued development. The management team has made a positive impact on the culture, with feedback from residents and relatives being encouraging.