This was an unannounced inspection carried out on 13 February 2019.

This was the first inspection of Arden Manor since it was registered with the Care Quality Commission in February 2017.

Arden Manor is a care home. People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection.

Arden Manor accommodates a maximum of 23 older people, including people who live with dementia or a dementia related condition, in one adapted building. At the time of inspection 23 people were using the service.

A registered manager was in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.

People said they felt safe and they could speak to staff as they were approachable. People and staff told us there were enough staff on duty to provide safe care to people. Staff knew about safeguarding procedures. Staff were subject to robust recruitment checks. Arrangements for managing people’s medicines were safe.

Risk assessments were in place and they accurately identified current risks to the person as well as ways for staff to minimise or appropriately manage those risks. Activities and entertainment were available to keep people engaged and stimulated.

People were involved in decisions about their care. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible. The policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

Records reflected the care provided by staff. Care was provided with kindness and patience. Communication was effective to ensure people, staff and relatives were kept up-to-date about any changes in people's care and support needs and the running of the service.

People had access to health care professionals to make sure they received appropriate care and treatment. Staff followed advice given by professionals to make sure people received the care they needed. People received a varied and balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs.

A complaints procedure was available. People told us they would feel confident to speak to staff about any concerns if they needed to.

People had the opportunity to give their views about the service. There was regular consultation with people and family members and their views were used to improve the service. The provider undertook a range of audits to check on the quality of care provided.