What the CQC found at Flanshaw Lodge

People and relatives described staff as caring. Inspectors saw staff speaking kindly, involving people and respecting their privacy and dignity.

“Staff were very motivated and engaged with people in friendly, kind ways.” from the report

Staff knew people's individual needs, histories and interests. Activities and conversations were adapted to each person.

“People received personalised care from staff who knew them well.” from the report

Inspectors found enough staff to meet people's needs. Recruitment checks were completed before staff began working with people.

“There were enough staff to meet people's needs.” from the report

The management team had strengthened care records, risk assessments and audits since the previous inspection. Quality checks were regular and linked to an improvement plan.

“Quality assurance systems were in place and were regular and consistent, contributing to the service improvement plan.” from the report

People had choices of food and drinks, with support for special diets and eating needs. Staff arranged healthcare support and monitored people's weight.

“People had a good choice of food and drinks which met their needs and preferences.” from the report

Some capacity assessments and best-interest decisions had been made but were not recorded robustly enough. Inspectors recommended that the recording be reviewed.

“Where people lacked capacity to make a particular decision, capacity assessments and best interest decisions had been taken, although these were not always robustly recorded.” from the report

Some medicines were prescribed with a variable dose, such as one or two tablets. Senior staff were working with prescribers to make the instructions clearer.

“Some medicines were prescribed with variable doses, such as 'take one or two'; Senior staff told us they were working to address this with prescribers to make this a clearer directive for staff.” from the report