Council care home receives thumbs up from Care Quality Commission

Fessey House, in Brookdene, Haydon Wick, achieved an overall ‘good’ rating following a recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). But the home was given an outstanding mark for the way in which it cares for people.

Inspectors commented on the exceptional feedback they received on how staff supported people in their care and how they went ‘the extra mile’ to ensure they got things just right.

The CQC said in its report: “There was an exceptionally strong ethos within the service of treating people with dignity and respect. People were at the forefront of service delivery and the provider was committed to and passionate about providing a high-quality service.

“People were supported by exceptionally caring staff that knew them well and understood how to maximise their potential. People’s independence was highly promoted and they received support to achieve their goals.”

At the time of the inspection in March, Fessey House was providing care to 32 people. The CQC inspection said the care home met the characteristics of a good service in the categories relating to safety, effectiveness, responsiveness and management. The care home had been graded as ‘requires improvement’ following an inspection last year.

The report added: “New evidence-based techniques and technologies were used to support the delivery of high-quality care and support. The provider worked collaboratively with the local hospital, GPs and community teams. Fessey House had been recognised in the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Value awards and won both last year’s categories for improving value in the care of frail older patients as well as improved partnerships between health and local government.”

The inspection also featured glowing testimonies from service users and family members. One person told the inspectors: “Staff are brilliant, top class. We have made good relationships, no problems at all”. Another said: “The level of care has been exemplary, and the efforts made by staff to keep service users stimulated and engaged are to be commended.

“Interaction between staff and family is fluid and any concerns are quickly addressed. Mum is happy there and, over the years, I have often thought she was extremely lucky to have been able to have been offered a place there.”

Councillor Brian Ford, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that the award-winning provision at Fessey House has been validated with this very good CQC inspection report.

“The staff work extremely hard and the comments from service users and family members sum up in a nutshell why the service was rated outstanding in the caring category.

“Fessey House has played an important role in our reablement programme, which has helped to stabilise the tremendous pressures on our adult social care budget so this independent judgement is welcome news indeed.”