Riverside celebrates ‘good’ result following inspection

Home news

Jul 18, 2019

A national care watchdog has given Riverside the seal of approval, with relatives and residents praising its kind and compassionate team members. 

The Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) report gave Riverside an overall ‘good’ rating, following an unannounced inspection. 

The care home received ‘good’ ratings in all five categories, including safety, effectiveness, level of care, responsiveness and having a well-led service. 

Inspectors commended the provision of activities, entertainment and outings that are organised for the residents. There are regular events, such as barbecues, visits from animals and themed days, as well as live music and celebrations. A relative of one resident commented: “No matter when you come, there is always something going on.”

The report noted that residents receive personalised care from team members who know them well, and engage with them at every opportunity, with one resident explaining: “The [team members] seem to know [what you want] before you say anything”. 

In the report, it was observed that residents are supported to have the maximum choice and control of their lives. It was also remarked that residents are supported to maintain relationships with friends and relatives, who are welcome to visit at any time. One resident said: “People can visit whenever, just like at home; you don’t want set times.”

The report also noted that residents are supported and treated with dignity and respect, with team members offering care which is compassionate and kind. One resident said: “The best thing about being here is the staff."

Residents also commented on how they felt safe at Riverside, with one resident saying: “If I've ever been bothered about anything, it's been dealt with", and a further resident adding: "I upset my [relative] yesterday by saying I felt safer here than at their house. It's because the staff here are trained to look after you."

It was also noted that residents were supported to maintain a balanced diet, with care plans in place detailing people's food preferences and any special dietary needs.  

Commenting on the ‘good’ rating, Michaela O’Brien, home manager at Riverside, said: “Creating a welcoming home-from-home feel, and making sure every resident receives the best possible care, is our absolute priority. Everyone here at Riversideworks incredibly hard to provide residents with compassionate, person-centred care, and I’m delighted that our efforts have been recognised by the CQC’s inspectors.

“I’m extremely proud of the team and would like to say thank you for their hard work and dedication, which I know is also greatly appreciated by residents and their families.”