Stoke Knoll Rest Home

This report summarises an inspection of Stoke Knoll Rest Home conducted on 8 and 10 November 2017. The home accommodates up to 25 older people requiring personal care. During the visit, 21 residents were living at the home. The inspection found that the home is accessible and offers comfortable communal and garden spaces, fostering a friendly and warm atmosphere where residents are encouraged to socialise and participate in activities. The report highlights the dedication of the registered manager and the compassionate approach of the staff, who are well-informed about residents' preferences and needs, ensuring they are supported to maintain independence and important relationships.

On safety, risks to individuals were assessed and managed, with robust safeguarding training for staff. Systems were in place to protect residents from harm, including medication management and infection control measures. The home benefits from sufficient staffing, with effective recruitment and training processes to ensure suitability and competence.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff receive comprehensive and regular training, including inductions for new employees, to ensure they can meet residents' needs effectively. The service adheres to the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, respecting residents' choices and ensuring decisions are made in their best interests. Residents are supported to eat and drink sufficiently, with individual dietary needs catered for, and their health needs are proactively met through timely referrals to healthcare professionals. The environment has been adapted to enhance accessibility and comfort, with personalised rooms and secure garden access.

Regarding caring practices, residents expressed satisfaction with the care received, describing staff as caring, considerate, and friendly. Staff demonstrate a deep understanding of residents' backgrounds, likes, and preferences, ensuring routines and individual choices are respected. Residents' dignity is consistently upheld, with staff being patient and respectful during personal care, and respecting privacy. The staff treat residents with kindness and compassion, often going beyond basic care to engage in meaningful conversations and ensure residents' well-being.

In terms of responsiveness, the service actively seeks feedback from residents, relatives, and staff, with examples of implemented improvements based on suggestions. A clear complaints policy is in place, and residents feel comfortable raising concerns. The registered manager monitors the quality and safety of the service through regular audits, indicating a proactive approach to service improvement.

For how well-led the service is, the registered manager is described as dedicated and passionate, actively involved in daily operations and possessing a thorough understanding of residents' needs. Staff are aware of their responsibilities and work collaboratively, with senior staff providing support and ensuring continuity through an on-call system. The provider has implemented effective quality assurance measures, including audits and incident analysis, contributing to the overall positive functioning of the home.