Extra care scheme gets seal of approval from watchdog

Falcon and Griffin extra care scheme has received a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission, the watchdog for health and social care.

All five areas of inspection were given the same ‘good’ marks – the service provided was safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led.

The scheme provides personal care and support to mainly older people, who live within a sheltered housing scheme. The housing is managed by Six Town Housing, and the care provided by staff from Bury Council.

Between them, the Falcon and Griffin Houses consist of 40 flats and 29 bungalows. Residents are checked twice daily for their welfare and safety, and two of the flats are used as a 'halfway house' to help those who have left hospital but still need support before going home.

The CQC says that staff were suitably recruited and trained to do their job effectively and safeguard the residents.

Appropriate risk assessments had been completed and procedures were in place to deal with any emergency that might occur. Legal safeguards were in place for people who may be unable to make their own decisions, and residents were involved in regular reviews of their care to ensure that it met their needs and preferences.

“People told us they considered staff were kind, had a caring attitude and felt they had the right skills and knowledge to care for them safely and properly,” said the CQC. “We saw that staff treated people with dignity and respect.

“To help ensure that people received safe, effective care and support, systems were in place to monitor the quality of the service provided. Systems were also in place for receiving, handling and responding appropriately to complaints.”

Comments from residents made during the inspection included:

"I trust them with everything they do for me."

“Theycheck on me every day to make sure I am OK"

“Staff are always cheerful and friendly and are always there when you need help and assistance"

"We are very pleased with what you do for us. If we need anything we only have to ask"

Councillor Andrea Simpson, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Falcon and Griffin helps residents to live independently for as long as possible and gives them the security and privacy of having their own front door. It gives them their independence and may prevent them from having to go into residential care or hospital.

“It’s a fabulous project and a great example of how Bury Council and Six Town Housing have invested in quality services for older people, and we are delighted to see that recognised in the CQC report.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 22 September 2017.

Picture: Cllr Andrea Simpson meets residents and staff at Falcon and Griffin extra care scheme.