Echelforde wins approval of national care inspectors

Home news

Jul 04, 2017

A national care watchdog has given Echelforde the seal of approval, with relatives and residents praising its caring and attentive team members.

The Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) report gave Echelforde an overall ‘good’ rating, following an unannounced inspection.

The home received ‘good’ ratings in all five categories, including safety, effectiveness, level of care, responsiveness and having a well-led service.

Praise was given for the care that each team member showed towards the residents, and it was observed that their relationships demonstrated dignity and respect at all times. A relative said "You can't fault the team. They'll do anything for [family member]. They all come and say hello, which I think is important. It makes all the difference."

The report noted that the atmosphere in the home was relaxed, and team members always spoke to residents in a respectful yet friendly manner. One resident commented: “I get on very well with team members. I have a laugh with them.” It was also highlighted that the home manager had established a philosophy of care, and encouraged team members to have conversations with residents to engage positively in their lives.

The report also found that team members supported residents to be independent where possible, and encouraged them to make their own choices but remained attentive to residents’ needs. During the visit, inspectors witnessed a team member place a blanket over a resident’s knees after hearing them say they were cold, and asked if they would like a cardigan.

Relatives were involved in planning their loved ones’ care, and were able to express their views during regular meetings. One resident explained: "We are very much involved in her care planning. We see a copy of the care plan regularly." Another added, "We have relatives meetings. It's so important. It gives us a chance to air things. It's a forum for discussion and we feel listened to.

During the visit, inspectors observed that the team at Echelforde had created an extensive activities programme which was planned to reflect residents’ individual interests. Entertainers and local community groups regularly visited the home, and residents were encouraged to go on outings to places of interest. It was also noted that team members engaged in impromptu activities with residents on the suites, such as playing games and singing along to music.

Jagpal Singh, home manager at Echelforde, said: “We strive to create a welcoming home from home feel at Echelforde, and I’m so pleased our efforts have been recognised by the CQC’s inspectors. Everyone here works incredibly hard to support residents with compassionate, person-centred care, and to be rated ‘good’ shows just how committed the team is to making a positive difference to residents’ lives each and every day.

“I’m extremely proud of our team and I would like to say thank you for their hard work and dedication, which I know is also greatly appreciated by residents and their families.”

It was also highlighted that residents’ needs had been assessed before they moved into the home and team members were aware of individuals’ preferences. This was particularly demonstrated during meal times, where residents would be offered a choice of meals. One resident added: "They know what I like and they will always find me something I can eat."