What the CQC found at Sycamore Lodge

Most people and relatives said they felt safe. Staff had safeguarding training and knew how to report concerns.

“People were supported by staff who had completed safeguarding training and who knew how to identify concerns and how to report these.” from the report

The home recorded and reviewed accidents and incidents. Records showed that observations and referrals were made when needed.

“Incidents and accidents were being recorded and analysed so that action could be taken to reduce the risk of them occurring.” from the report

Inspectors found the premises clean and free from odours. Most infection control arrangements they checked were satisfactory.

“We were assured that the provider was promoting safety through the layout and hygiene practices of the premises.” from the report

The staff files checked showed the required recruitment checks had been completed.

“All staff had received the required pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and had their identification checked.” from the report

Care plans and daily records did not always contain the information staff needed. This included pressure care, repositioning, nutrition and hydration, and observations.

“People's care plans were not always current, and care was not always delivered as assessed.” from the report

There was high use of agency staff and vacancies. Inspectors saw people waiting for support, and one unit fell below its allocated staffing level.

“People were not always cared for by sufficient numbers of suitably qualified, competent, skilled and experienced staff to meet's people's care and treatment.” from the report

Audits and weekly management meetings did not identify the recording, medicines and care planning problems found during the inspection.

“This meant the providers audits and systems had failed to identify shortfalls found during this inspection.” from the report

Management did not always wear face masks as required. The infection control policy needed updating, and testing was not assured for all agency staff.

“We were not always assured that the provider was using PPE effectively and safely as we found management were not always wearing face masks as required.” from the report