Working at Derwent View

Staff were trained in safeguarding and knew how to raise safeguarding concerns. 'Managers carried out a monthly accident and incident analyses to identify any causes or contributory factors and took corrective action as necessary.' 'Managers continually reviewed and updated risk assessments.'

Staff felt valued and said they loved working at the home. 'A social care professional said the staff told them that being employed at the home didn't feel like work because they enjoyed it so much.' 'There was a voting box on site... The member of staff chosen received £100 and an award/certificate.'

The staff team were established, some having worked at the home for many years, and no agency or bank staff were used. 'The home was well-staffed... [Person] has one-to-one and even two-to-one staffing when they need it.'

The provider's own training company, accredited by Skills for Care as a 'centre for excellence', provided courses for staff including the nationally-recognised Care Certificate. Staff also had the opportunity to study National Vocational Qualifications up to level 5. 'Staff completed courses relating to people's specific needs and diagnoses.'

The registered manager provided outstanding leadership and support to staff, people and relatives. '[Registered manager] is the most caring, passionate person I have met. Management come in on nights or the early hours to see staff or if there are any worries. What I also like is that management is hands on and will work shifts.'

People took part in a wide range of individual and group activities... Another person achieved their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award... Staff devised an individual adventure game... using the home's multi-media skills suite to produce a newspaper report. 'There had been a huge reduction in challenging behaviour incidents... from 38... to seven.'