The Laurels

The Laurels is a residential care home for up to six people with mental health needs, acquired brain injuries, or learning disabilities. This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) reflects an inspection that assessed how safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led the service is. The inspection involved speaking with residents and staff, and reviewing various records to understand the care provided and the overall functioning of the home. The findings highlight the dedication of the staff and the positive impact on the residents' lives.

On safety, residents stated they felt secure. While medicines were managed and stored safely with staff trained for administration, there were some issues with environmental safety. For instance, a window restrictor was missing on one window, and some areas showed a build-up of dirt, though these were addressed during the inspection. Safeguarding procedures were followed correctly, and staff received regular training.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs and choices were assessed and incorporated into detailed, personalised care plans. Staff received appropriate training and specialist support for various needs, and residents were well-supported in accessing healthcare services. People were able to choose their meals, with some assisting in preparation, and the home's design and garden were accessible and met residents' needs.

The service was caring, with staff demonstrating compassion, kindness, and respect. Residents experienced a calm atmosphere and positive interactions, with staff providing tailored support for anxieties and personal preferences. People felt involved in decisions about their care, with their views actively sought and acted upon, and their privacy and dignity were consistently respected, promoting independence.

Regarding how responsive the service is, residents consistently received support tailored to their individual needs, choices, and preferences, with care plans regularly reviewed. Communication needs were met through various formats, ensuring everyone could access information. The home also had an appropriate complaints system in place to address any concerns raised by residents or their families.

On the leadership and management of the service, while managers understood their regulatory responsibilities and care plans were detailed, the system for ensuring the environment remained consistently safe and clean was not always robust. Audits and quality assurance processes had not consistently identified or addressed some of these issues, which represents an area for development.