Silver Birches

Inspectors found enough staff to meet people's needs, and call bells and requests for help were answered promptly. Recruitment checks had also been completed.

“At this inspection we found there were now sufficient numbers of staff.” from the report

Staff knew people well and supported them in line with their preferences. Inspectors saw warm interactions and support that protected privacy and dignity.

“People were supported by staff who were kind and caring who respected people's individual needs and preferences.” from the report

Records gave staff clearer guidance about people's needs and risks. Diabetes care, pressure care, fire arrangements and environmental safety had improved.

“Information within care plans and risk assessments were now consistent, and guided staff to support people safely in line with their identified needs and risks.” from the report

The home worked with health professionals and the local authority. Inspectors were told that staff listened and responded to professional advice.

“We can't praise the staff highly enough. They listen and respond to our advice and recommendations.” from the report

Some mattresses, pressure-relieving cushions, bedding and equipment were stained or had not been cleaned effectively. Inspectors were not fully assured that infection control arrangements were embedded.

“There were some stains to mattresses, pressure relieving cushions and bedding, and some equipment had not been cleaned effectively.” from the report

The home's audits and oversight did not consistently identify problems. The lack of arrangements during the care manager's absence contributed to these shortfalls.

“Systems, processes, and oversight of the service were still not fully effective or embedded.” from the report

People and relatives were not always invited to reviews of care needs. The report recommends that all people and those important to them are consistently invited.

“Not all people and relatives said they were involved in care plan reviews.” from the report

Several relatives said there were too few activities. The report recommends consulting people and relatives to improve the number and frequency of activities.

“Five out of the 9 relatives we spoke with said the service needed to offer more activities.” from the report

Records for some as-required medicines did not show why they were given, their effect or the timing. The medicines audit also did not cover all relevant checks.

“when these medicines were administered the reason, effect or timing was not recorded.” from the report