What the CQC found at The Abbeys

Staff were compassionate and patient. Inspectors saw positive interactions and found that privacy, dignity and personal choices were respected.

“Throughout the day we observed numerous positive interactions between people who used the service and staff, who were appropriately affectionate and respectful.” from the report

Care plans gave clearer guidance about people's needs, risks, preferences and safe movement. This addressed a concern from the previous inspection.

“At this inspection care records had been improved and contained appropriate information about people's needs, including how to move them safely using a hoist.” from the report

There were enough staff on duty during the visit, call bells were answered promptly and medicines were stored and administered safely.

“Medication administration records [MAR] checked had been completed correctly and stock sampled tallied with the records.” from the report

People were offered a varied diet and choice at mealtimes. Inspectors also found a varied programme of social activities, including group and one-to-one activities.

“People had access to a varied programme of social activities, which they enjoyed.” from the report

The manager was visible and approachable. People, relatives and staff were encouraged to give feedback and raise concerns.

“The service had an open and positive culture that encouraged involvement of people using the service, their families and staff.” from the report

A pharmacy audit had found a few gaps in medicines administration records. The manager said these had been addressed, but families may want to ask how this is checked now.

“At their visit on 16 October 2018 they had highlighted minor errors, such as a few gaps in MAR, however, the registered manager told us these had been addressed.” from the report

One staff file contained only one written reference. A verbal reference had been recorded and a written reference was being followed up.

“However, we noted one file only contained one written reference.” from the report

Not all individual audits stated when identified actions should be completed. The manager said this would be recorded in future.

“However, we found not all individual audits identified timescales for completion.” from the report

The Food Standards Agency had said improvement was needed in the kitchen's information about allergens. The report says action had been taken and information was displayed around the home.

“In June 2018 the Food Standards Agency had assessed the kitchen facilities and documentation at the home and found improvement was needed.” from the report