What the CQC found at Summercourt

Inspectors saw staff treating people with patience, affection and respect. People and relatives described care that went beyond what they expected.

“Staff had built trusting, respectful and warm relationships with the people and their family members.” from the report

Care plans included people's histories, routines, preferences, communication needs and abilities. Staff knew these details and used them in daily care.

“The home had a strong, visible, person centred culture.” from the report

Staff received training in areas including medicines, dementia, moving people safely and positive behavioural support. They also received regular supervision and appraisals.

“There was a comprehensive staff training programme in place and a matrix indicated when updates were needed.” from the report

People could choose where to spend their time, what to eat and which activities to join. The home offered group activities, trips and activities linked to individual interests.

“People were supported to participate in activities they enjoyed and had an impact on their quality of life.” from the report

Inspectors found clear responsibility, visible managers and effective checks on care and safety. The home acted on feedback from people and relatives.

“There was an effective quality assurance system in place to drive continuous improvement within the home.” from the report

Some medicated creams had no opening date. Inspectors said this could mean people received medicines that were out of date or ineffective. The home was asked to review its practice.

“people's topical medicines and creams had not been dated when they had been opened.” from the report

For people using alarm mats, the records did not show a mental capacity assessment or best interests decision where needed. The manager acknowledged this and acted immediately.

“the principles of the MCA and best interests decision making had not always been applied where they should.” from the report

There were few signs to help people find bedrooms, communal rooms, bathrooms, toilets, lifts and stairs. Inspectors recommended taking advice about adapting the building.

“there was little in the way of signage directing people to communal rooms, bathrooms, toilets, lifts and stairs.” from the report

The first lunchtime observed was not relaxing and there was no clear system to ensure people had what they needed. Later observations showed a clear improvement, with people and staff relaxed.

“on the first day it was not a very relaxing experience for people.” from the report