Working at Parkland House

Medicines were managed in a safe and effective manner led by the medicine's lead/deputy manager. There was a robust system of audit and review in place for the safe administration of medicines... All incidents and accidents were reported by staff and promptly reviewed by managers... analysed... remedial actions.

Staff were extremely positive about Parkland House, most having worked there for many years. They sought us out to tell us what a great place it was... Most staff had been at Parklands for many years, one staff member past retirement age did not want to retire and continued to work. They all said they loved working at the home seeing people as their families.

Staff and relatives did not hesitate in telling us there were sufficient numbers of workers to provide support for people. There was a high staffing level including senior care workers and care workers supporting the registered manager and team leader. A team of five activity co-ordinators across the week enabled staff to spend quality time with people and their families. We have no agency workers at Parklands.

Staff received a variety of excellent training. During a three-month induction supported by a mentor... Videos and experience-based learning were used extensively... Hospice training... Montessori for elders training focussed on creating a role for people.

The registered manager provided very good support for staff to be able to do their job effectively. They, and the provider, acted as passionate advocates and role models, especially promoting and embedding good quality care for people living with dementia in and outside the service.

The service had been awarded validation as an Eden Alternative member... Activities were provided seven days a week and offered a wide variety of relevant and meaningful activity both inside and outside of the service... team of five activity co-ordinators... cooking club, knit and natter, intergenerational projects, university music department, pet care.