Horfield Lodge in Bristol was rated outstanding for being caring, responsive and well-led following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), on 20 & 21 November 2019.
The safe and effective categories received a score of Good.
Beech Hall is a residential care home providing nursing and personal care to adults aged 65 and over.
People living at Horfield Lodge expressed unreserved satisfaction and spoke highly of all staff and services provided. Comments included, "You have all been absolutely outstanding and I really appreciate all your hard work and the loving care you provide," "The care mum received was exemplary," "We found the standard of care and the commitment of staff to be first rate," "All staff care deeply about their residents, and nothing is too much trouble for them," "Mums health and emotional needs have always been met compassionately and with respect" and "Nothing is too much trouble and an atmosphere of calm, kindness is evident at all times. I can't praise it highly enough."
Recently a new initiative was rolled out, the successful facilitation of End of Life Expectations group meetings. The first meeting was well attended and appreciated; this had also resulted in people requesting individual discussions to make plans.
One person told CQC inspectors, "I found it very useful, it's important I am able to make plans for myself. Nobody likes to think about death, but the meeting was not doom and gloom, it was helpful." The expectation of the home was that no-one would have unanswered questions or will be afraid of death and dying. The chaplain wrote, "It is hoped that when they see death as part of life, and once they have made plans and faced fears, they are then free to enjoy what is left of their lives, however long that will be."
The whole home promoted a culture based on protecting human rights by adhering to the underlying core values of fairness, respect, equality, dignity and autonomy (FREDA). All staff were made aware of the FREDA principles during their induction and were provided with a prompt card for them to carry with them. The MHA values were promoted each week. Staff evidenced the selected weekly value throughout their work and how they supported the value in the care they delivered.
Each morning the head of each department meetings discussed the principles, highlighting any concerns, celebrating good practice and recognising individual achievements. Any compliments received regarding respect and dignity at work were shared amongst the team.
