This was an unannounced inspection carried out on 3 May 2017.

This was the first inspection of Aspen Court since it was registered with the Care Quality Commission in November 2015. The premises had previously been owned by another provider.

Aspen Court is registered to provide personal and nursing care to a maximum of 63 older people, including people who live with dementia or a dementia related condition.

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 were safe and staff were kind and approachable. There were sufficient staff to provide safe and individual care to people. People were protected as staff had received training about safeguarding and knew how to respond to any allegation of abuse. When new staff were appointed, thorough vetting checks were carried out to make sure they were suitable to work with people who needed care and support.

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. Staff knew the needs of the people they supported to provide individual care. Care was provided with kindness and people’s privacy and dignity were respected. Records were in place that reflected the care that staff provided.

Appropriate training was provided and staff were supervised and supported. Staff had a good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and best interest decision making, when people were unable to make decisions themselves. People were able to make choices where they were able about most aspects of their daily lives. People received a varied and balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs. However people who lived with dementia were not always encouraged to make choices with regard to their food.

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. Systems were in place for people to receive their medicines in a safe way. However, we have made a recommendation about the management of medicines.

Changes had been made to the environment by the new provider. It was brighter and most areas had been refurbished. There were plans that it would be designed to promote the orientation and independence of people who lived with dementia. We have made a recommendation that the environment should be designed according to best practice guidelines for people who live with dementia.

Activities and entertainment were available to keep people engaged and stimulated.

A complaints procedure was available. People told us they would feel confident to speak to staff about any concerns if they needed to. The provider undertook a range of audits to check on the quality of care provided.

People had the opportunity to give their views about the service. There was regular consultation with people and/ or family members and their views were used to improve the service. People had access to an advocate if required.

Staff and relatives said the management team were approachable. Communication was effective to ensure staff and relatives were kept up to date about any changes in people’s care and support needs and the running of the service.