A CARE home in Stockton Heath for people needing mental health support has been told to improve by the health watchdog.

Westleigh, on Walton Road, is home to 16 people and was rated ‘good’ in its last inspection.

Accommodation can be found across two floors with a communal living and dining area, well-maintained garden areas and an accessible passenger lift.

While the home maintained a good rating in its effectiveness, caring and responsiveness, inspectors found the quality and safety of care had deteriorated and the provider was in breach of regulations.

People’s support needs and areas of risk were assessed from the outset, however some care records did not contain the relevant risk assessments and not all risks were effectively recorded or monitored. One person did not have the relevant skin integrity risk assessment or support plan in place and one person’s mental health support needs were not safely managed.

Medication temperature checks were not completed as regularly as they should have been, and inspectors identified some concerns with the ordering and supply of medicines.

People said they felt safe, one told inspectors: “I was given the choice of a supported flat or here. I chose here because I felt much safer here.”

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported people in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests. However, one person’s restrictions were not monitored regularly enough.

Staff were observed providing kind and compassionate care; they were familiar with the support needs of people who were living at Westleigh and told inspectors how they developed positive relationships with the people they cared for.

Up to date safeguarding and whistleblowing policies were in place and staff explained how they would raise any concerns and were familiar with the reporting procedures.

Staff are supported on a daily basis and training, learning and development opportunities were available.

An activities co-ordinator was employed who helped to arrange a variety of different group and one-to-one activities.