Worsley Lodge

Worsley Lodge is a care home that provides accommodation and personal care for up to 48 people, including those living with dementia. This report follows a previous inspection where significant improvements were needed. The current inspection found positive changes in several areas, indicating a more secure and person-centred environment, though some aspects of leadership require further development.

On safety, residents and their families feel secure. The home has improved in managing risks, such as ensuring a small kitchen door is no longer left propped open unsafely, and fire escape signage is now properly in place. Staff are knowledgeable about safeguarding procedures, and although staffing levels were increased, some residents still feel there could be more staff, a concern the home is actively addressing. Medication management has seen considerable improvement, with accurate records and safe administration processes now in place.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are thoroughly assessed before they move in, ensuring the home can meet them. Staff have received essential training, and where necessary, plans are in place to complete any outstanding refreshers. Support for residents' nutritional needs has greatly improved, with varied food and drink options available and regular monitoring for those at nutritional risk.

The service is caring, with staff consistently described as kind and supportive, taking time to understand and respond to residents' needs while promoting their dignity and independence. Residents feel their wishes are heard, and staff are skilled at communicating with them to ensure they are involved in decisions about their care.

Regarding how responsive the service is, Worsley Lodge continues to provide person-centred care that adapts to individual needs and preferences. Care plans are regularly reviewed and updated, incorporating feedback from residents and their families. A range of activities is offered, including social events and outings, to enrich residents' lives.

However, in relation to how well-led the service is, while residents and their families find the management team approachable and responsive, and staff feel supported and understand their roles, there are still areas for growth. The local safeguarding team has experienced difficulties in obtaining timely information, and locating all necessary records during the inspection also presented challenges. Further development is needed in embedding robust systems for sustained improvement and oversight of records to ensure consistent leadership.