What the CQC found at De Bruce Court

The home worked with external health and social care professionals. Inspectors received positive feedback about the way staff followed professional guidance and supported people moving into the home.

“They have supported many people with complex needs. They make sure they understand people's needs and that they can support them.” from the report

People could access independent advocacy and were supported to express their views through easy-read surveys.

“People were supported to access independent advocacy services.” from the report

The report says recruitment records were complete, references were obtained and appropriate DBS checks were confirmed.

“The recruitment of staff to the home was safe. Recruitment documentation was fully completed, references were gathered, and confirmation of an appropriate level DBS check obtained.” from the report

There were not always enough staff to provide planned support. Inspectors saw one person who needed one-to-one support without a staff member present, and agency staff worked before all checks and induction were complete.

“The provider failed to ensure enough staff were deployed to meet people's needs.” from the report

Some risk assessments and fire evacuation plans were inaccurate or out of date. External exit padlocks created an additional safety concern because staff could not find the keys.

“One person's Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) gave incorrect guidance for a safe evacuation and a simulated evacuation had not taken place.” from the report

Medicines were not always recorded or managed safely. Guidance for medicines given when needed was missing or lacked detail, and audits had not found the problems.

“Medicines were not always managed safely. Records to support the safe use of covert medicines (medicines disguised in food or drink) were not in place.” from the report

Some people were bored, had little meaningful interaction and could not go out when staff were unavailable. Staff did not consistently support people's goals or development of everyday skills.

“People did not have access to meaningful activities. People sat in lounge areas with no meaningful interaction for long periods of time.” from the report

One person's gender-specific care and religious dietary needs were not always followed. The report says kitchen practices changed after feedback, but the staffing issue still needed addressing.

“One person required gender specific care and dietary support to maintain their faith.” from the report

Quality systems did not reliably identify or correct problems. Records about risks, daily care, medicines and safeguarding incidents were incomplete or inaccurate.

“Systems were either not in place or not robust enough to oversee the quality of the service.” from the report