The Rambles receives high praise
In August last year, the CQC inspected The Rambles, one of our residential care homes. The results were brilliant: a 'Good' rating was achieved for all the criteria and the staff team received some fantastic feedback.
The inspection report noted that residents ‘were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives in the least restrictive way possible’ thanks to a model of care designed to ‘maximise people’s choice and independence’.
“I think that’s down to how well we know the people we support,” says team leader Michelle. “We promote independence with the way we do things, for example how we communicate. Three of the people living here are non-verbal so we use flash cards, body language and Makaton (a language made up of signs and symbols)."
A little creativity goes a long way
Inspectors went on to say that 'the provider’s values were person-centred and focused on what support each individual wanted to achieve their dreams'. They praised staff for 'looking at the whole person, seeking solutions, being adventurous, connecting and being creative'.
"We always encourage them to try new things," says Michelle. "We took one of the guys to Mallorca a few years ago so he could broaden his horizons and experience something different. Normally, he would choose Butlins because he's been there loads before. But we gave him a choice by printing out pictures of places in England and abroad, and he said he wanted to go on a plane. So we did!"
During lockdown, the team also came up with a project for one of their green-fingered residents to get stuck into. "He used to volunteer every week at Tyntesfield, a National Trust property, and help with the grounds and gardens," explains Michelle. "Obviously when the pandemic hit, he could no longer go there.
"So we cleared this disused patch of land we had at the top of the garden and he made a vegetable patch. He really took control, helping to cut bushes and plant things – he's even got his own greenhouse. He loves it up there and it was a great way to break up the boredom of lockdown."
A home to be proud of
The CQC also highlighted that 'improvements had been made to the environment', including refurbishments and new decor in parts of the home. “Two people had their rooms redecorated and they chose pretty much everything," explains Michelle. "We showed them samples and took them through different options online and in brochures. We just try to make it as homely as possible.”
One thing that's clear throughout the report is the hard work and innovative approach of the team working at The Rambles. “The success of the inspection and the good report we received is all down to the staff,” says locality manager James. “We’ve got a really dedicated team who work well both together and individually, and that’s the make or break thing really. I can’t sing their praises enough.”
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