The inspection took place on 23 and 24 November 2016. It was unannounced.

Bedhampton Nursing Home and Specialist Care Unit is registered to accommodate up to 49 people. It provides personal and nursing care services for older people and younger adults who may have a sensory impairment or physical disability. At the time of our inspection there were 37 people living at the home. They were accommodated in private rooms on two floors. Shared facilities included a wet room, hairdresser, two treatment rooms, a quiet lounge on each floor, a conservatory / dining area, and an enclosed courtyard garden.

There was a registered manager 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.

The provider had put arrangements in place to protect people from risks to their safety and welfare, including the risks of avoidable harm and abuse. Staffing levels were sufficient to support people safely. Recruitment processes were in place to make sure the provider only employed workers who were suitable to work in a care setting. There were arrangements in place to store medicines safely and securely, and to administer them safely in accordance with people’s preferences.

Staff received training and supervision to maintain and develop their skills and knowledge to support people according to their needs. Staff were aware of the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Staff supported people to eat and drink enough to maintain their health and welfare. People could access external healthcare services, such as GPs and hospital out-patient appointments.

Staff had developed caring relationships with people they supported. People were encouraged to take part in decisions about their care and support and their views were listened to. Staff respected people’s independence, privacy, and dignity.

Staff delivered care and treatment which were based on assessments and plans which took into account people’s abilities, needs and preferences. Staff supported people to take part in leisure activities which reflected their interests. People were kept aware of the provider’s complaints procedure, but there were few complaints made.

The home had a welcoming atmosphere. People appreciated the honesty and responsiveness of the management. Systems were in place to make sure the service was managed efficiently and to monitor and assess the quality of service provided. The provider responded to feedback to improve and expand the service.