The Dell

The Dell is a care home that provides a welcoming environment for up to 40 older people, including those with dementia, as well as offering intermediate care placements. This report summarises findings from a recent inspection, highlighting the home's commitment to providing a good standard of care across all areas. Residents and their relatives generally express positive experiences, feeling safe and well cared for by attentive staff. The inspection focused on assessing the service against key quality indicators, with the aim of providing families with an informed overview of its strengths and areas for continued development.

On safety, the home demonstrates robust practices including comprehensive risk assessments and regular health and safety checks to ensure the building is secure. Medication is managed safely, and staff have a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures to protect residents from harm. The service also maintains effective infection control measures, including appropriate use of PPE and adherence to vaccination requirements for staff, ensuring a secure environment, particularly in light of COVID-19.

In terms of how effective the care is, The Dell ensures residents' needs are met through a person-centred approach, working within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act to support residents in the least restrictive way possible. Staff receive ongoing training and regular supervision, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to provide effective support, including dietary needs and healthcare appointments. Improvements to the environment have been made, with plans for further upgrades to bathrooms.

Regarding caring practices, residents are supported by staff who demonstrate kindness, compassion, and respect, fostering positive interactions and a sense of belonging. Staff are attentive to individual needs and promote resident independence, privacy, and dignity. While residents are encouraged to be involved in their care reviews, the manager has been advised to ensure relatives are consistently and clearly recorded as being involved in this process.

On responsiveness, the service plans personalised care that meets residents' preferences and needs, with staff demonstrating a good understanding of individuals' circumstances. The home actively supports residents in maintaining relationships and engaging in meaningful activities, with strong community links and a dedicated activities coordinator. They are also equipped to provide end-of-life care, enabling residents to remain within the home.

Finally, concerning how well-led the service is, The Dell benefits from experienced and approachable management who are clear about their responsibilities. The service has embedded quality monitoring systems, including regular audits, to ensure high standards of care and compliance. While the provider is developing its oversight systems, the overall leadership culture promotes high-quality, person-centred care. A recommendation has been made to introduce provider-level audits for enhanced oversight.