Delphi Care Solutions, an independent care consultancy company, recently conducted a one-day unannounced mock quality inspection at Whalley Road, our specialist residential home for adults with mental health needs in Accrington, Lancashire.
The process of a mock quality inspection mirrors a Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment, providing valuable feedback to enhance the quality of our services for the individuals we support. Using an external company ensures an unbiased evaluation and upholds high standards without internal influence.
Whalley Road’s most recent CQC rating (October 2021) was ‘Good’. Following the mock inspection, the service maintained its ‘Good’ overall rating across four key areas, and one additional area was rated ‘Outstanding’.
Below are some of the highlights taken from the mock report:
Safe
The report found that Whalley Road emphasised the importance of maintaining an active and positive safety culture. This was evident through evidence of thorough record-keeping, transparent reporting, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The team neither overlooked nor ignored risks; instead, they were used and proactively addressed as opportunities for correction, learning, and development.
Effective
Before residents moved into Whalley Road, the inspectors found their needs were thoroughly assessed. This preliminary assessment allowed the senior team to determine whether they could adequately meet people’s needs and whether the environment would be suitable. From this assessment, personalised care plans and associated risk assessments were developed.
Caring
The inspectors found staff took great pride in creating an environment where people felt genuinely cared for, with kindness, compassion, and dignity. The team at Whalley Road received training to provide daily support that respected each person’s unique needs and preferences. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from people using the service, along with the inspectors’ observations of a calm and settled environment, demonstrated the effectiveness of these measures. Whalley Road was rated ‘Outstanding’ in this area.
Responsive
Whalley Road is committed to person-centred care placed people at the heart of all activities, ensuring that each person’s unique needs, preferences, and values were both respected and prioritised..
Staff were trained to understand individuals’ histories, interests, and well-being, fostering a supportive environment. Staff also have received training to understand and respond to the people’s personal histories, interests, and emotional well-being, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment. Activities and care plans were customised for each person, promoting independence and enhancing overall quality of life.
Well-led
Staff and management have cultivated a culture of positivity, compassion, and active listening. This environment not only fosters trust and understanding between people and staff but also demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. By involving all parties in the planning process, a shared vision emerges, driving collective efforts towards achieving the strategic goals.
Congratulations to the entire team at Whalley Road on this fantastic achievement!
For more information about Whalley Road, click here.
