Our homes win approval of national care inspectors

Company news

Aug 15, 2016

Three of our homes have been given the seal of approval by a national care watchdog, following unannounced inspections.

Praise for the homes’ caring team members from relatives and residents has resulted in a ‘good’ rating for Darlington Court in Littlehampton, Colne View in Halstead and Asterbury Place in Ipswich in the report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

In order to assess service standards at the care homes, the CQC’s inspectors spoke with team members, residents and their visiting relatives on the day of the inspection, and conducted a review of the records and procedures already in place at each care home.

The inspectors found that across the three different homes, the service was responsive towards resident’s health needs and that they were treated with respect and dignity. The report also highlighted how residents enjoyed taking part in activities, and that they were able to maintain their own hobbies and interests. 

Each home received praise for their service, the highlights of which are outlined below:

Darlington Court, on the Leas off Station Road, Littlehampton

Inspectors noted that residents are looked after by kind and caring staff who knew them well. Staff are encouraged to sit and chat with a different person they did not know well in a daily event, 'Tea at 3'.

The report goes on to say that residents are supported to express their views and to be involved in decisions about their care and were treated with dignity and respect, with each resident having an individualised care plan.

The CQC findings were echoed by residents and staff, with one of the residents commenting: “Everything about this place is good. I don't have a bad word to say." Another remarked: "Food's excellent. We have a good chef. You can request anything. You have a menu every day so you can get what you like."

When asked by inspectors how they respect residents’ privacy, one member of staff said: "Exactly as if I was looking after my mum and dad. Try and let residents have as much independence and choice as possible – be kind".

Colne View, Dame Mary Walk Way, Halstead

According to the inspector’s report, Colne View has a ‘friendly and pleasant atmosphere’ where residents said they feel both safe and cared for by the well-trained care team who understood their needs. It was recognised that where able, individuals and their loved ones were involved in planning and renewing their care, and that dietary needs were assessed and catered for accordingly. 

The report highlighted the varied programme of social events and activities at Colne View and that residents are encouraged and supported to maintain their independence and to pursue their interests and hobbies.

It was noted that the Care UK team constantly demonstrate a kind and caring attitude towards residents, which includes; respecting the privacy of individuals and taking note and interest in the life stories and personal preferences of the residents - highlighting the effective person-centred care operated at Colne View.

Asterbury Place, Aster Road, Ipswich

The inspector noted the range of activities available at Asterbury Place each week based on residents’ interests, such as arts and crafts, games and trips out. There are also themed areas within the home which promote relaxation and reminiscence for residents living with dementia, such as a vintage dining area with 50s-style crockery and newspapers from times gone by.

The report also praises the quality of food available at Asterbury Place. Head chef Garry Newman prepares an extensive menu of healthy meal choices for residents every day, and always asks for residents’ opinions and ideas for meals to add to the menu. Mealtimes are a lively, sociable occasion and the home is flexible to allow residents to eat and drink whenever they like, whether it’s an early breakfast or a midnight snack.

Relatives were positive in their comments about Asterbury Place, particularly praising the home manager and her caring and friendly team. Residents and relatives are encouraged to voice their opinion on the care home’s service and give suggestions for improvements at regular meetings and through satisfaction surveys.