What the CQC found at Potton House

People and relatives described staff as caring. Inspectors saw warm and friendly interactions and staff protecting people's dignity.

“Our observations during the day of inspection, were of staff interacting and communicating with people in a warm and friendly manner.” from the report

Care plans recorded people's life histories, preferences and routines. The home offered group and one-to-one activities, including sensory activities and outings.

“There was a varied programme of activities for people to take part in.” from the report

People had access to a nurse and other health professionals. Staff supported people with their dietary needs and offered freshly cooked food and choices.

“People had access to the healthcare they required.” from the report

Staff had the training required for their roles, including dementia care training. They said they felt confident and supported.

“All the staff had received the training they required to effectively do their jobs.” from the report

Records for topical medicines had not been completed for several weeks, even though the medicines had been given. Inspectors said this created a risk because it was not always clear what medicines people had received.

“This placed people at risk as the medicines they had received were not always accurately recorded.” from the report

Some audit checklists said topical medicine records were complete when they were not. No further checks had identified the gap before the inspection.

“There were no further checks or audits which had picked up that topical MAR were not being used.” from the report

People, relatives and staff gave mixed views about staffing. The manager reported recruitment difficulties and substantial use of agency staff, although inspectors saw enough staff on duty during the visit.

“The manager told us that recruitment had been difficult, and a large number of agency staff were being used.” from the report