Working at Arcot House Residential Home

Risks were assessed and extremely detailed plans put in place... Medicines were well managed... 'Safety Cross' system... Accidents/incidents resulting in serious injury to people continue remain very low showing measures were effective... proactive risk assessments, open learning culture.

Staff felt constantly supported, valued and praised. They told us, 'We all strive to give outstanding care. It makes us so proud. Who wouldn't want to work here' and 'I'm so happy to have the opportunity to spend time with the people here. I love it.'

The provider over recruited to ensure there were enough staff to safely provide care and support to people, including monthly one to one sessions... High staffing levels meant they could provide good, personalised care to people without rushing as the provider intentionally over recruited.

Staff continued to receive extremely good support and training. Staff completed a comprehensive induction... ongoing programme of updates and refresher training... regular supervision meetings... ambassador scheme... training based on research and best practice.

Staff told us the registered manager led by example and they had tremendous respect for her and their commitment. Relatives said they could talk to the registered manager at any time, including making appointments for the evenings and weekends.

The service had been creative in developing areas... such as hair salon, art therapy room and nail bar... lifelike robotic dog had been purchased and proved to be successful in easing the person's anxiety, reducing loneliness and improved overall quality of life... intergenerational projects, allotments, community trips.