Britten Court wins approval of national care inspectors

Home news

Dec 18, 2017

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

The Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) report gave Britten Court on Love Road 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 compassion and kindness that each team member showed the residents, with one family member commenting: “When the team speak to [relative] they talk to them like they’re the most important person in the world.”

The report noted that residents felt safe at Britten Court, one resident told inspectors: “the whole set up here is very good and I am quite settled.” Inspectors also observed how the care team treated residents with respect and protected their dignity.

Inspectors remarked on the approachable nature of the care team, noting that residents and relatives were complimentary about how they were treated. Residents were able to express their views and were listened to. One resident described the team as being “very caring and patient”, another added that they: “know me so well, they even know what paper I have delivered.”  

During the visit, inspectors observed activities taking place including board games and were told of regular games, entertainment, and music events in partnership with other care homes in the local area. One resident told inspectors: “There is plenty to do, I never feel bored.”

It was highlighted that the care home has regular use of a minibus to take residents on days out around the local area. One resident said: “We get trips out which I like and it’s a chance to have a change of scenery.”

Home manager, Chloe Swarbrick, was recognised for making a positive impact on life at the home since her arrival in December 2016. A relative told inspectors that: “The new manager has brought some new ideas which are great for residents.” Another added: “I know Chloe’s door is always open if we need anything.”

Talking about Britten Court’s recent CQC result, Chloe said: “We strive to create a welcoming home from home feel at Britten Court, 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 resident’s 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.”

There were observations during mealtimes where inspectors noted that people were provided with adapted cutlery where appropriate to enable residents to eat and drink more independently.  One resident told inspectors: “I’ve always been happy with the food”, with a relative adding: “there is always a good choice.” 

Inspectors noted that people were supported to maintain relationships with loved ones and it was highlighted that there was ample seating in the ground floor café which was being used by relatives visiting loved ones and could be accessed freely by residents in all suites at Britten Court.