This was The Firs Residential Homes first inspection since registering with the Care Quality Commission.

The inspection took place on the 28 June 2017 and was unannounced. The Firs Residential Home provides care and accommodation for up to 38 older people, some of whom are living with dementia. On the day of the inspection 35 people lived at the home.

The service had a registered manager in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) 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.

One person said when asked; “Safe- of course. Why wouldn’t I be?” A relative said; “Yes she is safe.” Professionals spoken with all felt people were safe living in the service.

People were engaged in different activities and enjoyed the company of the staff. There was a calm and relaxed atmosphere within the service. People said they were happy living at the service.

People were satisfied with the care the staff provided. They agreed staff had the right skills and knowledge to meet their needs. People were encouraged and supported to make decisions and choices whenever possible in their day to day lives.

People were protected from harm as staff had completed ‘safeguarding of vulnerable adults’ training. Staff understood how to report any concerns and what action they would take to protect people.

People who did not have capacity to make decisions for themselves were supported by staff to make sure their legal rights were protected. Staff worked with other professionals in people’s best interests. The registered manager worked in the service most days and had taken action where they thought people’s freedom was being restricted. Applications were made and advice sought to help safeguard people and their human rights.

People were protected by safe recruitment procedures. Staff were supported with an induction and ongoing training programme to develop their skills, and staff competency was assessed. People, staff and relatives said there were sufficient staff on duty.

People had their privacy and dignity maintained. Staff were observed supporting people with patience and kindness.

People had visits from healthcare professionals. For example, speech and language therapists, to ensure they received appropriate care and treatment to meet their healthcare needs. Professionals confirmed staff followed the guidance they provided. People received the care they needed to remain safe and well. For example, people had regular visits by district nurses to attend to dressings. People’s end of life wishes were documented and respected.

People’s medicines were managed safely. Medicines were stored, and disposed of safely. Senior staff administered medicines. They confirmed they had received training and understood the importance of the safe administration and management of medicines.

People were supported to maintain a healthy balanced diet. People told us they enjoyed their meals and there was plenty of food available. We observed people, who required it, being supported at mealtimes. One person said; “The food is exceptional!”

People’s risks were considered, well-managed and regularly reviewed to help keep people safe and well. Whenever possible, people had choice and control over their lives and were supported to engage in activities. Records were updated to reflect people’s changing needs. People and their families were involved in the planning of their care. People’s care records were of a good standard, were detailed and recorded people’s preferences.

People said the registered manager was very approachable and made themselves available to them. Visiting professionals and staff confirmed the registered manager made themselves available and were very good at supporting them.