The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has found significant improvements at Hill House in Cambridgeshire and upgraded their overall rating from inadequate to good. They have also been removed from special measures, following an inspection in November.
Hill House, run by ADR Care Homes Limited, is a residential care home providing personal care for older adults, some of whom live with dementia or physical disabilities.
This inspection was carried out to follow up on improvements CQC told leaders to make at a previous inspection. CQC found the home had made significant improvements in all aspects of the service and they are no longer in breach of regulations.
The service’s overall rating has now been raised from inadequate to good, as well as for being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
Stuart Dunn, CQC deputy director of operations in the east of England, said:
“When we inspected Hill House, it was encouraging to see the improvements that had been made in response to concerns we raised at our last inspection. Leaders have taken action to foster a positive culture that now prioritises dignity, respect and personalised care. The service is now rated as good, and we have removed it from special measures as a result.
“People told us they feel supported by staff who know them well and adapted their care to meet their individual needs. One relative shared how staff had been patient and thoughtful in helping their family member regain confidence and strength after a couple of falls. They helped them to eat and drink again and to get their strength back, showing the team’s commitment to supporting people’s independence.
“Leaders have transformed how they manage risks by using detailed and improved risk assessments and care plans. These plans now guide staff effectively, ensuring people stay safe and healthy including how they can support people’s eating and drinking.
“Staff worked closely with external health professionals to promote good health outcomes and support people in leading healthy lives. They ensured people were supported in line with the Mental Capacity Act, recording and sharing professional advice with the team.
“We also saw the home now had enough, skilled and experienced staff to keep people safe. People told us staff now demonstrate extensive knowledge and expertise in supporting them.
“Everyone at Hill House should be proud of the improvements they’ve made. We’ve shared our findings with them so that they can continue to build on the improvements we saw, and we will continue to monitor the service to make sure these changes are sustained long term.”
Inspectors also found:
- Staff and leaders actively listen to feedback from people and families. People highlighted the variety of options available for activities. A relative noted the introduction of new afternoon activities and visiting services, which have enriched the lives of their family member
- The home has significantly enhanced the environment by addressing safety risks and upgrading facilities. People and relatives praised these efforts, with one saying their room was always spotless and feels like home, another highlighting the refreshed appearance of communal spaces
- Leaders have worked to foster a more inclusive and collaborative atmosphere. Relatives appreciated the improved communication from the management team, sharing that they now feel heard and involved in care decisions
- People and relatives told us they were supported safely with their medicines.
However:
- The service still lacked clear systems of accountability and governance in some areas. Much of the management was handled by senior leaders and ADR Care Homes Limited rather than the home, which is not sustainable in the long term. Local leaders and staff need further support to take on these responsibilities independently.