Tegfield House

Tegfield House offers a residential care service for up to 24 individuals, providing personal care in a welcoming two-storey building. This report details the findings of a recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), highlighting the home's strengths and areas for continued development. The inspection aimed to assess the overall quality of care and ensure that the service is safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led. The findings reflect the experiences of residents and their families, providing valuable insights for those considering Tegfield House for their loved ones.

On safety, the home excels in safeguarding residents, with staff well-trained and aware of potential abuse signs and procedures. Comprehensive risk assessments, supported by technology like sensor mats and air mattresses, are consistently implemented to minimise harm. Maintenance and safety checks are rigorously conducted, ensuring a secure environment. Although staffing levels are generally sufficient, the team proactively identified a need for additional support during a specific part of the day, leading to the successful introduction of a twilight shift that has improved care delivery and reduced staff pressure. Medication administration is safe and handled by competent, trained staff. The introduction of an electronic care system has significantly improved care delivery and record-keeping.

In terms of how effective the care is, Tegfield House demonstrates a truly holistic approach to assessing and planning for residents' needs, ensuring their individuality is embraced. Care plans are detailed and consider protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010, with staff receiving comprehensive equality and diversity training. The home effectively uses nationally recognised tools to identify and meet residents' needs, such as the Abbey Pain Scale and Braden Scale. Staff receive in-depth induction and ongoing support, fostering their development and ensuring high standards of care.

The service is outstandingly caring, with staff showing genuine affection towards residents, which is reciprocated. Residents and their families are actively involved in care planning, and residents are consistently offered choices about their daily lives. Staff go above and beyond to make residents' lives better, and the home provides excellent support during end-of-life care, showing great respect to individuals and their families. Information is presented in a suitable format for each resident's needs, and a full programme of activities is available, catering to diverse preferences.

Tegfield House is exceptionally responsive, with residents' needs and preferences at the forefront of all decisions. The home has made significant adaptations to meet the needs of people living with dementia, incorporating best practices to create a supportive environment. Strong working relationships with local health and social care professionals ensure residents have good access to necessary services. The service is compliant with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and ensures Deprivation of Liberty Authorisations are appropriately managed.

Regarding how well-led the service is, the registered manager leads by example, actively supporting staff and being accessible to residents and families. The management team is highly regarded for their supportive and empowering approach to staff. Low staff turnover and the absence of agency staff for an extended period contribute to consistent, familiar care for residents. Regular audits and stakeholder engagement, including residents, relatives, and professionals, ensure continuous improvement and a commitment to embedding learning from any incidents. The provider is dedicated to ongoing improvement, constantly striving to enhance the resident experience.