What the CQC found at St Alban's

Care plans and risk assessments gave staff clear guidance about people's needs, including how to respond when someone became distressed.

“People had detailed care plans and risk assessments which included guidance to support staff to deliver safe care and reduce risks.” from the report

Medicines records were accurate, staff had relevant training and there were clear instructions for medicines given when needed.

“The provider had effective systems in place to assist staff to safely manage medicines.” from the report

Inspectors, staff and relatives said staffing levels were enough to meet people's needs and keep them safe.

“Staff told us there were enough staff to meet people's needs and keep people safe.” from the report

People were supported to make choices about their care, and relatives were involved in reviews and care planning.

“People were supported to make decisions about their care.” from the report

The manager listened to inspectors and took action during the inspection when concerns were raised.

“The registered manager was open and transparent during the inspection and demonstrated a willingness to listen and improve.” from the report

Some staff did not wear face masks in line with the guidance, and staff were not clear about putting on and removing PPE. One visitor also did not follow the home's visiting policy.

“Staff were wearing PPE but there were occasions when some staff were not wearing their face masks in line with current government guidance” from the report

The home's governance systems did not identify the PPE concerns or one staff member's training needs before the inspection.

“Governance systems were in place however, they had been ineffective in identifying concerns around PPE compliance, and one staff members' training needs.” from the report

One new staff member had not completed required training on time. The manager completed the training and introduced an action plan.

“Oversight of staff training had been ineffective to ensure a new staff member completed their required training in a timely way.” from the report

Recruitment checks were in place, but the home had not fully explored gaps in one staff member's employment history.

“However, for one staff member the registered manager had not explored fully the gaps in their employment history.” from the report

The home usually notified CQC about incidents, but there was a delay in reporting an authorised deprivation of liberty.

“There was a delay in informing us when a person had an authorised deprivation of liberty in place.” from the report