Dear Reader,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for bearing with us over the past two years, which has seen many changes in guidance towards visitation and COVID testing. I recognise that it has not been easy for many of you, as we attempted to balance the need for families to see their relatives at the home, along with the need to provide a safe and effective a service as possible.

Unfortunately, the ongoing challenge of COVID-19 will result in instances where we may still need to restrict visitation due to outbreaks in our homes, in line with public health guidelines.

We all experienced an unprecedented couple of years and its impact on our residents, their families, and our staff would inevitably be felt. However, our first CQC inspection after the lifting of restrictions nationwide, has demonstrated just how impactful the situation has been.

Although the quality of our service in regard to caring and responsive remains ‘Good’, the report has highlighted areas that require improvement. As a result, I have taken robust and decisive action:

Prior to the inspection, not all our staff had the right skills and knowledge to act promptly and effectively, putting our service at a continued risk of falling below our expected standards. Following the inspection, we have invested heavily in a new training program to ensure that all members of staff are fully trained across the key areas of the organisation. At the time of writing, I can confirm, that all training needs outlined in the report have been addressed, and this commitment will be ongoing.

Furthermore, training and ongoing support have been implemented across all aspects of safeguarding, in particular regarding risk assessment, safety monitoring and management. A new Fire Marshall has also been appointed and full fire safety training has been undertaken across the home.

These are to name but a few of the immediate measures that I have taken to address CQC’s concerns but I assure you, we are not stopping there. Our commitment to providing the best possible living experience, in a safe, caring, effective environment is paramount, and I will keep you posted on developments via our social media. For those of you who aren’t following us, I would encourage you to do so.

Services like ours require strong leadership and managers to support and implement the improvements needed to reinstate our Good rating and even take us to Outstanding. Together, we are responsible for creating the culture and setting the standards of care in our home and are inspirational in others doing a good job. I expect our turnaround period to be a quick one, and we are already anticipating a prompt CQC review inspection.

Thank you for your continued understanding during these challenging times.

Best wishes,
Pete Saini
Director
On behalf of Oriel Care Home