Copthorne home wins seal of approval from national care watchdog

Home news

Jun 05, 2015

Care UK’s Francis Court care home in West Sussex has been given the seal of approval by a national care watchdog.

At an unannounced visit by the Care Quality Commission, inspectors found that the home in Borers Arms Road meets the Government’s standards of quality and safety which is assessed by looking at the following areas:

• Safety
• Effectiveness
• Caring
• Responsive
• Well-led

During their visit to the home, which provides specialist care for general and complex nursing needs and people living with dementia and physical needs, the inspectors talked informally to the residents, team and examined the home’s administrative systems and processes.

People at the home told the inspectors that “they enjoyed living at Francis Court and that they received good support from staff.” Many comments about the staff were passed onto the inspectors who visited the home. One of the residents described that staff as “Top class” and another told the inspectors “Everybody looks after us so well”.

Home Manager Nicola Palladino said: “I am thrilled that we reached the high standard set out by the Government and CQC and I was delighted that the inspectors highlighted how the team works to respect people's privacy, dignity and independence.”

The report continued to say that “People were treated with kindness and respect. There was a friendly atmosphere at the home. People and staff were seen to enjoy each other’s company, to joke and laugh together.”

The inspectors noted that residents felt supported within the home and that the staff had the support and training they needed to meet any needs. The inspectors also noted that the residents or their representatives were able to share their experiences and that any concerns were addressed promptly.

The report also highlighted the activities programme and the social atmosphere within the dining areas, writing “Lunchtime was a sociable experience for most people. A menu was available to choose from and people told us that they enjoyed the food. There was a varied activity programme and some events were attended by people from the local community.”

Nicola said: “Everyone at Francis Court, including the kitchen and maintenance teams, strives to ensure that we create genuinely individual care for each resident.

“To do that, we ensure we get to know each person, their history and their interests, so that we can tailor each care plan to maintain their independence, life skills and sense of wellbeing.”

The report commented on the varied activity programme and some events were attended by people from the local community. Francis Court has recently arranged the use of a minibus and staff had taken their tests, ready to take people on outings outside of the home.