What the CQC found at The Meadow

Inspectors observed safe medicines administration and found no gaps in the medicines administration records they checked.

“The service followed safe medicines management practices. Staff were trained in medicines administration and their medicines competency assessments were in date.” from the report

Staff were seen speaking kindly, listening to people and responding to their needs. People and relatives said staff respected privacy and dignity.

“We saw the registered manager and staff talked to people in a kind and caring manner, listened to their needs patiently and met them promptly.” from the report

Care plans included people's histories, preferences, health needs and interests. Staff could explain how they supported individuals.

“People's care plans were comprehensive and individualised, and gave instructions to staff on how to support people to provide person-centred care.” from the report

The home offered group and one-to-one activities, including exercise, music, massage and pet therapy. People were also supported with religious and spiritual needs.

“The service worked well with other organisations in providing creative, meaningful activities to improve people's emotional well-being such as pet therapy and mother and baby group.” from the report

The management encouraged people and staff to raise concerns. Inspectors found regular audits, surveys and action plans to monitor the quality of care.

“The service maintained robust data management and monitoring systems and processes to ensure the safety and quality of the service.” from the report

A few visually impaired people said staff had limited knowledge of how to support them. The manager said training had been scheduled, but inspectors found it had not yet been provided.

“We looked at staff training records that demonstrated staff did not receive specialist training in working with people who were visually impaired.” from the report

Some dining rooms did not have enough space for everyone and their mobility aids. The management said refurbishment plans would be put forward to the provider.

“Three people and two relatives commented how lunch could be awkward in the dining rooms due to lack of space.” from the report

The home did not yet have enough signage or colour changes to help people with dementia find rooms and facilities. Refurbishment plans were in place.

“there was a lack of signage and colour zoned walls to support people with dementia in accessing various rooms and facilities in the service.” from the report

Some relatives felt staff could be stretched during the day, especially at lunchtime. Inspectors saw managers helping during meals and found call bells were answered promptly.

“Generally speaking there is enough staff but there are times during the day that they are stretched such as at lunchtime” from the report