What the CQC found at Hill Barn Care Home

People and relatives praised the staff team, and inspectors observed a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Staff supported people's dignity, choices and independence.

“We observed staff supporting people with kindness and care. There was a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere with staff and people laughing together.” from the report

Staff knew people well and supported their individual routines, interests and preferences. Care plans included information about people's preferences and social histories.

“People were supported by a stable and consistent staff knew who knew them well. This helped ensure the care met people's individual preferences.” from the report

Staff understood people's individual risks and monitored areas such as weight loss and falls. They acted to obtain health care when needed.

“The registered manager and staff understood people's risks. Clinical trackers were in place which supported the registered manager to monitor changing levels of risks” from the report

Relatives said communication was good and they were kept involved. The home had a stable, family-like atmosphere.

“The service had a homely feel, with a family ethos and atmosphere.” from the report

People were left without staff in a lounge for much of the morning and during lunch. Inspectors also found risks involving the first floor, pond fencing, garden access and missed fire and water checks.

“During our inspection we observed people sitting in one of the lounges without staff present for most of the morning.” from the report

Out-of-date creams and an unsecured denture adhesive were found. Medicines were otherwise administered and recorded safely.

“Most medicines were stored safely, however we found in one room, out of date topical creams and a prescribed emollient.” from the report

Menus were not always accurate or accessible, and some people were not offered suitable alternatives. People needing help to eat had to wait.

“Improvements were needed to support people to make choices on the food offered. No visual menus were on display.” from the report

The home needed refurbishment and clearer signage to help people living with dementia, including signs to identify bedrooms. Damaged walls and skirting boards also made cleaning harder.

“Improvements were needed to ensure the environment met the needs of people living with dementia and incorporate best practice guidance.” from the report

The home's audits and provider oversight were not yet robust enough to identify and drive improvements consistently. New audit systems and extra management support were being introduced.

“Governance systems had identified some areas for improvement but were not wholly effective.” from the report

A care station was not secure, with care files visible and a computer left unlocked. This meant confidential information could be accessed by visitors and people living in the home.

“This meant confidential information was accessible to visitors and people living in the service.” from the report