Thornton House Residential Home

Medicines were stored and recorded safely. Staff who administered medicines had training and competency checks.

“Medicine administration records (MARs) were accurate and up to date. All medicines, including controlled drugs, were stored safely.” from the report

The home completed appropriate checks before employing staff.

“Recruitment processes were safe. Appropriate pre-employment checks were carried out to ensure that only suitable people were employed.” from the report

Inspectors were assured that infection risks were being managed, including the use of protective equipment and arrangements for outbreaks.

“We were assured that the provider was using PPE effectively and safely.” from the report

The chef understood people's individual dietary needs, preferences and requirements.

“The chef was knowledgeable about people's individual needs and preferences as well as dietary requirements.” from the report

People had come to harm and prompt action had not always been taken. Safeguarding alerts and incident reports were not consistently made, so lessons were not learned.

“People had come to harm and prompt and appropriate action had not been taken to safeguard people.” from the report

There were not enough suitably trained and competent staff. Training did not cover important areas such as dementia care and positive behaviour support.

“There were insufficient numbers of suitably trained and competent staff employed to meet the needs of the people supported.” from the report

Some records used disrespectful language, and inspectors saw staff speaking to people in ways that were not always kind or person-centred. Relatives also said they sometimes provided personal care themselves.

“People were not always treated with dignity and respect. This was a breach of regulation 10(1) (Dignity and respect)” from the report

Some care plans were inaccurate, unclear or out of date. People living with dementia did not have clear guidance for staff, increasing the risk of inappropriate support.

“People living with dementia did not have any clear plans or guidance in place to guide staff about how best to support people on their dementia journey.” from the report

Communal areas, bedrooms and bathrooms needed refurbishment and repair. Lighting and signage did not fully support people living with dementia, and a bath lift had been out of service for an extended period.

“Premises and equipment were not always suitable for the purposes being used, and properly used and maintained.” from the report

Activities mainly involved loud music and films. People were not always offered a choice about where to spend time, and people in their bedrooms were not consistently offered one-to-one engagement.

“People who chose to spend time in their bedrooms were not offered any engagement. For example, 1:1 time, reminiscence or reading.” from the report