We are delighted that the CQC have assessed Edgemont Home as Good
People were 'happy and content' living at Edgemont House and we received positive comments about their views and experiences during our visits. People said staff were 'attentive and angels'.
One person said, "I feel like this is my home and I have a big family"
CQC reports:
We found the following examples of good practice. Various visitor arrangements for family were constantly reviewed and supported based on government guidelines.
One person spoke with us about how she had felt 'very safe' in the home and was enjoying her relatives visits. We saw a family member supporting their loved one during their visit. Prior to any visiting people were informed of the procedures they should expect on arrival. People were asked not to visit the service if they displayed any symptoms related to Covid. People continued to receive prompt medical attention when they became unwell and relationships with health professionals remained good. Staff were sensitive to people's feelings including anxiety and sadness. Positive activity provision continued, including celebrating special events. One to one interaction with people had also increased and people had enjoyed this individualised approach in addition to their activity programme.
There were clear policies, procedures and contingency plans in place. Audits were undertaken, and actions were taken to ensure improvements were made. Staff had received Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) training and regular updates were provided. Spot checks took place to check staff understanding and compliance with the use of Personal Protective Equipment and IPC practices.
People were supported by the service's recruitment policy and practices to help ensure that staff were suitable. The registered manager and staff were able to demonstrate there were sufficient numbers of staff with a combined skill mix on each shift.
Staff had the knowledge and skills they needed to carry out their roles effectively. They were supported by the provider and the registered manager at all times. Staff had completed nationally recognised qualifications in health and social care and others were in the process of completing this.
People received a service that was based on their personal needs and wishes. Changes in people's needs were quickly identified and their care amended to meet their changing needs. The service was flexible and responded very positively to people's requests. People who used the service felt able to make requests and express their opinions and views.
People were helped to exercise choices and control over their lives wherever possible. Where people lacked capacity to make decisions a process of best interest decision making had been followed that was consistent with the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) were understood by staff and appropriately implemented to ensure that people who could not make decisions for themselves were protected.
People benefitted from a service that was well led. The vision, values and culture of the service were clearly communicated to and understood by staff. The registered manager had implemented a programme of 'planned growth' that had been well managed and they were committed to continuous improvement.
Staff continued to feel supported by the registered manager, deputy and other colleagues. Comments included, "Things are going very well, I feel very supported by the manager and all the staff I work with" and, "The manager and deputy work with us so you never feel on your own, they are very supportive". The registered manager had ensured that staff felt supported through one to one meetings. These sessions enabled staff to discuss what was going well and where things could improve, they discussed people they cared for and any professional development and training they would like to explore. One staff member told us, "I have enjoyed these sessions, I feel confident to make suggestions and share my ideas".
The service remained caring. People were positive about their experiences. One person told us, "I've been here just over two years and I am very happy, the staff are excellent, it's friendly and homely, it feels like my home, not a care home".
Comments in relatives surveys demonstrated positive opinions about the service delivered. People wrote, "I am very pleased with the quality of care my parent receives. I also find the staff very friendly and approachable, thank you for all your efforts", "Thank you for all your help and consideration" and, "My relative is very happy at Edgemont House. I always get a cheery welcome from staff".
We read the homes compliments log which was left at reception so that visitors could share any news and express their views about their visit. Comments included; "Thank you for all you are doing", "This home is gold standard", "This is one of the best care homes, everyone is treated with great care", "You all deserve a medal, I love you all, you do a brilliant job" and, "What would we do without you".