Westerham Place Residential Care Home

Westerham Place, a residential care home, has been inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the findings from this comprehensive review are now available. This report assesses the quality of care and accommodation provided to older adults, including those with dementia, mobility issues, frailty, and diabetes. The inspection focused on five key areas: safety, effectiveness, care, responsiveness, and leadership. Overall, the service continues to provide a good standard of care.

Regarding safety, residents feel secure with staff providing attentive support. The home has robust measures in place to protect people from abuse, with staff well-trained in identifying and reporting concerns. Risks are thoroughly assessed and managed, and there are sufficient staff numbers to meet residents' needs. Medicines are administered and stored safely, and infection control practices are maintained. Accidents and incidents are handled effectively, with appropriate changes made to care plans.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs and choices are assessed upon arrival, with staff demonstrating knowledge and skill in their roles. The service promotes equality and diversity, ensuring residents are not discriminated against. Staff receive comprehensive training and ongoing competency checks, preparing them well for their duties. Residents are supported to maintain a balanced diet, and their dietary needs are well catered for. Access to healthcare services is facilitated, and staff work in line with the Mental Capacity Act to protect residents' rights and choices.

The care provided at Westerham Place is consistently described as kind and compassionate. Staff treat residents with respect, engaging them with empathy and understanding. Residents and their relatives are actively involved in decision-making regarding care and support, with regular reviews and open communication. Dignity and privacy are paramount, with staff trained and diligent in upholding these values. Visitors are made to feel welcome, contributing to a supportive environment.

The service is highly responsive to residents' individual needs, with care plans reflecting personal preferences and choices. Residents are encouraged to express their wishes regarding daily routines and activities, fostering independence. Meaningful activities are organised, catering to residents' interests and encouraging engagement. Concerns and suggestions are welcomed, with established procedures making it easy for residents and relatives to voice their opinions and receive prompt attention. Support is also provided for end-of-life care decisions.

Finally, the service is considered well-led, with a transparent, honest, and person-focused management approach. The registered manager fosters an open environment where staff feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. Regular surveys and feedback mechanisms ensure that residents' and relatives' views are considered and acted upon, leading to service improvements, such as the addition of an activities coordinator. The home maintains effective systems for monitoring care quality, and strong partnerships with external agencies ensure coordinated support for residents.