The Oaks Residential Care Home

Inspectors saw staff being warm and compassionate when interacting with people.

“Although staff showed compassionate care and warmth when interacting with people, care was delivered intuitively and not driven by best practice.” from the report

People received their prescribed medicines supportively, and a sample check, including controlled medicines, was correct.

“A sample check of people's medicines, including controlled drugs was carried out and was found to be correct.” from the report

The home completed capacity assessments and involved relevant people in best-interest decisions. Required authorisations were in place where needed.

“We found the service was working within the principles of the MCA and if needed, appropriate legal authorisations were in place to deprive a person of their liberty.” from the report

Records showed the home worked with health and care professionals, including speech and language, dietetic, dementia and GP services.

“Information in people's care records confirmed the service worked well in partnership with professionals, including SaLT, dieticians, dementia services and the GP to ensure people's health needs were met.” from the report

The premises and bathrooms were dirty, and laundry and protective equipment arrangements increased the risk of infection.

“Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures were poor, which placed people at risk of acquiring infections and associated implications to their health.” from the report

There were not always enough staff to provide personal care, supervise communal areas and keep the home clean. Staff lacked training in dementia care and swallowing difficulties.

“Systems to assess numbers of suitably qualified, competent, skilled and experienced staff have not ensured there are sufficient staff deployed to meet people's needs.” from the report

Seven staff files did not contain evidence of all required checks, including identity, employment history, references or up-to-date DBS information.

“Review of 7 staff files found they lacked evidence to show all the required recruitment checks had been made to ensure the member of staff was fit to be employed.” from the report

The home's audits were mainly tick-box checks and did not identify serious problems or track trends and causes of incidents. Staff morale was also reported to be low.

“Systems to assess and monitor the quality and safety of the service were ineffective.” from the report

The condition of bedrooms and bathrooms affected dignity, and some staff used disrespectful terms about people. Relatives gave mixed feedback about updates and access to information.

“Staff were not always respectful towards people referring to them as 'kicking off', wanderers, double ups, and singles.'” from the report