RESIDENTS' GUIDE

 

This document sets out our aims and objectives, the range of facilities and services we offer to residents and the terms and conditions on which we do so.  Our Statement of Purpose, (of which this document is a summary), specific Policy Statements and our most recent inspection report is readily available on request..

 

Contents

 Registration Details. PAGEREF _Toc243823628 \h 2

How Specialist Needs Are Met PAGEREF _Toc243823629 \h 2

Aims & Objectives. PAGEREF _Toc243823630 \h 3

Philosophy Of The Home. PAGEREF _Toc243823631 \h 4

Personal Belongings. PAGEREF _Toc243823632 \h 4

The Building and Gardens. PAGEREF _Toc243823633 \h 5

Staffing. PAGEREF _Toc243823634 \h 5

Provision Of Health Care. PAGEREF _Toc243823635 \h 6

End of Life Care. PAGEREF _Toc243823636 \h 6

Equipment PAGEREF _Toc243823637 \h 7

Medication. PAGEREF _Toc243823638 \h 7

Policy On Smoking And Alcohol PAGEREF _Toc243823639 \h 8

Recreational Facilities. PAGEREF _Toc243823640 \h 9

Visiting. PAGEREF _Toc243823641 \h 9

Community Facilities. PAGEREF _Toc243823642 \h 9

Religious Needs. PAGEREF _Toc243823643 \h 10

Household Pets. PAGEREF _Toc243823644 \h 10

Data Protection & Access To Personal Files. PAGEREF _Toc243823645 \h 10

Advocacy. PAGEREF _Toc243823646 \h 10

Legal Advice - Consulting A Solicitor. PAGEREF _Toc243823647 \h 11

Personal Finances. PAGEREF _Toc243823648 \h 11

Fees. PAGEREF _Toc243823649 \h 11

Optional Extras. PAGEREF _Toc243823650 \h 12

Admission. PAGEREF _Toc243823651 \h 13

Temporary Vacation Of Accommodation. PAGEREF _Toc243823652 \h 13

Termination Of Residence. PAGEREF _Toc243823653 \h 13

Consultation. PAGEREF _Toc243823654 \h 14

Commendations. PAGEREF _Toc243823655 \h 14

Complaints Procedure. PAGEREF _Toc243823656 \h 15

Resident’s Rights. PAGEREF _Toc243823657 \h 17

The Home’s Rights. PAGEREF _Toc243823658 \h 17

 

 

Registration Details

Hunter's Lodge is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), in accordance with the Care Standards Act, to provide care for a maximum of 36 residents in the following categories:

 

OP old age, not falling within any other category

E    people over 65 years of age but who do not fall within the category of old age

DE  dementia (over 50 yrs of age)

MD mental disorder, excluding learning disability or dementia (over 50 yrs of age)

LD  learning disability (over 50 yrs of age)

PD  physical disability (over 55 yrs of age)

D    past or present drug dependence (over pensionable age)

A    past or present alcohol dependence (over pensionable age)

SI   sensory impairment (over 55 yrs of age)

 

Hunter’s Lodge Retirement Home Ltd, is a privately owned, family run company with Heather Cowley as Managing Director, and Allison Cowley-Smith as Director and Company Secretary.

 

Heather opened the home in February 1984 and her daughter Allison became registered as joint manager in 1988 after gaining the necessary experience and qualifications.  Monica Gardner joined the management team in 1997, after being employed at Hunter’s Lodge for some 8 years previously. Although Heather is no longer actively involved in the running of the home, either Allison or Monica is almost always available or on call.

 

How Specialist Needs Are Met

Prior to admission an experienced member of staff from the home will carry out an "Assessment of Need".  Information will be sought from relatives and any medical professionals involved in their care. A prospective resident will only be accepted if the manager feels confident that the home can adequately meet those needs.  However, if subsequent to admission it is found that information relating to the residents abilities or care needs has been grossly inaccurate or withheld, we reserve the right to withdraw our offer of care. 

 

People who are especially disruptive or who are physically aggressive and likely to cause harm to others will not be admitted.

 


As well as caring for people who are permanent residents, we also provide day care for up to 4 people per day. Additionally we can provide respite care.  However, we do not maintain a dedicated short stay room so the availability of this service is very limited.  The same facilities and services will be provided as to those offered to our permanent residents.

 

Management and staff appreciate the necessity for a compassionate understanding of the individual needs of the resident. The qualities needed to provide such an understanding and guidance emanate from management and senior staff who in turn take professional advice as necessary.  (Please ask for a copy of our specific policies relating to the care that you need)

 

A comprehensive, written care plan is developed for every resident, and this is reviewed at monthly intervals, or sooner if there is a change in the individual’s care needs. Residents and/or their relatives are asked to contribute to this care planning process.  

 

Aims & Objectives

Hunter's Lodge is a multi-category care home, registered with C.Q.C..  We aim to provide a high standard of care, delivered by trained staff who promote independence and as high a quality of life as possible in a happy and homely environment.

 

a)  To comply with the Care Homes Regulations and aspire to the outcomes described in the National Standards.

 

b)  To deliver care sensitively and flexibly, ensuring respect and privacy, dignity and independence as far as possible, irrespective of the residents' physical or mental infirmity

 

c)   To maintain a stimulating environment for residents through social interaction and involvement in all aspects of the running of the home.

 

d)  To provide safety and security that protects our residents at all times, while ensuring that our care does not become overly paternalistic or unreasonably restrictive.

 

e)   To provide food that is nutritionally balanced, appetizing and plentiful, taking into account likes, dislikes and special dietary needs.

 

f)    To ensure that the premises are clean, odour free, safe, healthy, homely and welcoming

 

g)  To maintain a robust recruitment process, and then train and equip our staff to enable the aims and objectives to become a reality for each resident

 

h)  To maintain our training and procedures to ensure continued multi category registration

 

i)     To communicate and consult regularly and effectively with residents, relatives, staff and key stakeholders in order to ensure that the stated aims and objectives are maintained.

 

j)    To manage Hunters Lodge in a way that ensures the long term security of the home.


Philosophy Of The Home

Hunter's Lodge aims to provide a high standard of care in a happy and homely environment, promoting independence and as high a quality of life as possible with the support of trained care staff.   Our philosophy is based upon a belief that all Residents have the right to be treated as individuals.  Whilst we require staff to work within basic guidelines and routines this does not institutionalise care.  This will be monitored at regular intervals, in full consultation with all residents, relatives, staff and visiting professionals.

 

Residents choose how they wish to be addressed. Although first names are often used between residents and staff, this is not an automatic assumption, even though this practise may be consistent with a family atmosphere.

 

In order to retain dignity, self-respect and levels of ability, all residents will be encouraged in maintaining independence, to whatever degree possible, in every aspect.  Residents are actively encouraged to take part in decision-making regarding their own care and the running of the home.  

 

In accordance with the principles of the Mental Capacity Act  (2005) and good practice guidance, responsible risk taking is regarded as normal, and residents will not be discouraged from undertaking activities solely on the grounds that there is an element of risk. Those who are competent to judge the risk to themselves will be free to make their own decisions, so long as heir actions do not threaten the safety of others.

 

Hunter's Lodge is "Home" to the residents, and the management will agree to all residents' reasonable requests in the use of the home, and its facilities. The accommodation at Hunter's Lodge is entirely for the use of the residents and their guests.

 

Our residents' need for privacy will be respected at all times, and we recognise the importance of personal and private space and time.  It is understood that some residents accustomed to living on their own, may not wish to spend all their time in communal areas, but will prefer to spend time in their private rooms. Meals are also served to the resident in his/her own room if so desired.   Companionship will be encouraged, but the important criteria is the wishes and needs of the resident.

 

Management and staff will always speak confidentially and privately with the resident when discussing his/her personal needs or problems, and never in the presence of other residents. 

 

Personal Belongings

Residents are strongly encouraged to bring personal belongings and furnishings in to the home. Items such as ornaments, photographs and pictures, ensure immediate familiarity in an unfamiliar room. Where possible, residents are encouraged to furnish their own room, but advice should be sought as to the suitability of larger items of furniture. In order to ensure residents’ and staff safety, we must ensure that furnishings comply with current Fire Regulations, and any electrical items brought in to the home will be subjected to a Portable Appliance Test. We are happy to assist residents with the transportation of their belongings (within a 20 mile radius) at no extra cost.

 

Belongings brought in to the home will remain the property of the resident. In the event of the resident's demise, the executors should arrange for the disposal of such property. Furniture and belongings are covered by our own insurance, to the collective value of £1,000 maximum. Any additional items such as personal valuables should be insured by the resident separately.

 

A record is kept of items brought in to the home, and therefore we would ask to be informed if any item is removed, or if any additional items are brought in. 

 

Although  lockable facilities are provided in each room, residents are advised not to keep amounts of cash or valuables in the room We would not usually wish to accept valuables or cash for “safe keeping”, but in the event that assistance is requested with this, we will advise on other options available to the resident.

 

The Building and Gardens

Hunter’s Lodge is located in the quiet village of Old Dalby. There are seating areas in the front garden for residents to enjoy as well as an enclosed garden to the rear of the home.

 

The home which was originally converted from stables provides accommodation on a split level with both stories having ground floor access.  The lower ground floor is accessed by stairs that are fitted with a stair lift.

 

Four very comfortable lounges are available for residents use; one with an indoor fish pond and fountain. There are also two Dining Rooms, and a pleasant courtyard and gardens with suitable seating arrangements, which is used by residents and their visitors in warmer months.

 

A choice of single or shared room accommodation is provided in 29 bedrooms, the majority of which offer en-suite toilet facilities. The home is wheelchair accessible throughout the upper ground floor.

 

All bedrooms are fitted with Yale locks on the door. On admission, the resident will be asked whether they wish to use this facility. Obviously, a master key is carried by staff for use in the event of an emergency.   A lockable item of furniture is routinely provided and cash boxes are also available on request.  Bedrooms are fitted with Fire detection systems and an intercom call bell system, in order that assistance can be called for at any time.   Televisions are provided free of charge, although residents are very welcome to bring their own set, with which they are familiar. Coffee/tea making facilities will also be provided, free of charge, on request.

 

Staffing

In addition to the registered managers, there is a senior (or acting senior) member of staff on duty at all times, who will have had an absolute minimum of 2 years experience and received additional training in residents’ needs and conditions. 

 

Hunter’s Lodge has always been committed to the training of all staff at all levels. We aim to achieve and maintain a team of care staff, at least 50% of whom are qualified to NVQ Level 2 as a minimum. All staff receive additional training on a regular basis, in specific areas relevant to their work role, and the needs of the people in our care.

 

This work places such demands on staff that they require not only training but also a high degree of maturity, personal strength, and insight. The qualities of our staff group enable them to understand residents' behaviour, respond effectively, to cope calmly with their anxieties and to handle crises flexibly when they occur.

 

 

Provision Of Health Care

Hunter's Lodge is Registered as a Care Home, where 24 hour care is provided within the concept of 'family care', in a homely environment. We do not employ any qualified nurses, and we are not registered to provide Nursing Care. Medical and nursing care is provided by the Doctors and District Nurses who regularly visit the home. Other health care professionals, such as specialist consultants are also called upon for advice, or to make domiciliary visits, as and when the G.P.'s feel it appropriate.

 

All medical treatment and consultation will be given in private. All residents are able to talk privately to their own G.P. or nurse, or to have a Senior member of staff with them if they so wish.

 

Wherever possible, we will undertake to care for residents who become ill. However, if an occasion arises whereby the G.P. feels that hospital admission is necessary, the matter will be fully discussed with the resident and their relatives, and staff at Hunter's Lodge will give every assistance.  If Hospital treatment is required, the resident's room will be held until such time as they return home.

 

We will provide staff escorts to appointments for health care eg GP, hospital outpatients, dentist, chiropodist, etc. where a relative of the resident is not available, and for a maximum of 4 times per year.  Where a relative needs assistance to support a resident, a member of staff will be available, either to drive or to assist with personal care.

 

Staff escort will be provided in the event of Emergency admission to hospital for a maximum of two hours.  (We will never leave a vulnerable resident in a position which has an adverse effect on their safety and well-being, but we would seek support from a family member if a member of staff is required for longer than 2 hours,

 

Where staff escorts are needed over and above this provision, and where relatives are unable to provide the support needed, a charge may be levied at £10 per hour.

 

End of Life Care

Hunter's Lodge has adopted the principles laid down in the Gold Standards Framework.  We work closely with residents and their relatives to ensure that the care needed at the end of life is planned in advance and that the care that we give meets the needs of the resident.  Such care will be given in the residents own room, and not in any special unit and we will ensure that all cultural and religious needs are met.   We will liaise with GP’s and community nurses to ensure that the resident is comfortable, and able to end their life with dignity.  Every facility and assistance will be given to relatives who wish to stay with, or be actively involved in, the care of the resident at the end of their life.  

 

The management of Hunter’s Lodge will do their utmost to support relatives and will ensure full consultation at all times. In the absence of any instruction or in the event of us being unable to contact relatives within 24 hours of the death of a resident, we will contact a local funeral director.  The expenses incurred will be the responsibility of the resident’s estate.

 

Equipment

Care has been taken to provide basic equipment needed to help residents maintain their independence.  However, we believe that we have also balanced this with maintaining a homely environment, where institutionalisation has been kept to an absolute minimum.

 

All rooms are fitted with Fire detection systems and an intercom call bell system, in order that assistance can be called for at any time.   Where residents are unable to use the call bell, pressure mats are fitted so that staff are immediately alerted if the resident gets out of bed and that they may be in need of assistance.

 

Televisions are provided free of charge, although residents are very welcome to bring their own set, with which they are familiar. Coffee/tea making facilities will also be provided, free of charge, on request.

 

The residents have access, free of charge, to equipment owned by the home.  This includes wheelchairs, walking frames and aids, hand rails, raised toilet seats, hoists, slide sheets, handling belts etc, various pressure relieving mattresses and chair cushions, specialist cutlery and crockery. 

 

Any pressure relieving equipment provided by the home is used according to the individually assessed needs of the residents and additional equipment is provided through the District Nurse as and when required.

 

Residents will also be assisted to access more specialist equipment which is provided through the NHS if needed via the GP’s and community nursing and therapy services.

 

Medication

Where a resident prefers to retain responsibility for their own tablets and medicines, and we are satisfied that they are capable to do so, they will be given every assistance.  The resident will be responsible for taking these. Management will monitor the resident's ability to administer their own medication, and in the event of any concern being raised, the matter will be discussed with the resident and their G.P. 

 

In the event of a resident being unable or unwilling to control their own medicines, Hunter's Lodge will supervise the ordering and correct administration of their prescribed medication on their behalf. 

 

Homely Remedies” and Sweets

Where we have accepted responsibility for the administration of medication, we would request that relatives do not bring household remedies in to residents, without first informing us of this.

 

By Household Remedies we mean over-the-counter medicines such as cough mixture, vitamins, tonics, paracetamol, aspirin, etc, as these can interact with other prescribed medications. 

 

We would also impress upon visitors the dangers in giving sweets, chocolate, and other foods to residents who are diabetic, or whose diet is restricted due to other medical conditions, or who may have swallowing difficulty.   If in doubt, advice can be sought from the senior on duty.

 

Policy On Smoking And Alcohol

In accordance with The Smoke-free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006, we can no longer allow residents to smoke in any indoor communal area.  Due to exemptions in the Regulations, residents may smoke in their bedroom (providing that it is a single room).  Residents may smoke anywhere outside the premises. However, due to health and safety considerations, smoking may need to be restricted and be subject to staff supervision.  If supervision is assessed as necessary, we would ask that relatives and friends do not give lighters or matches to the resident.

 

Sherry, wine and beer is provided with lunch and in the evening for those that enjoy it.  

 

Where alcohol intake may have a negative effect on the resident’s health and well-being this will be recorded in the care plan.  A resident has a right to make unwise choices, and as long as they have the mental capacity to understand the risks, staff will not restrict alcohol intake.  Where the resident lacks capacity and a restriction is placed upon them, this will be in accordance with the principles of best interests and will be documented in the care plan.

 

Food.

Residents are provided with quality foods that are nourishing, appetising and plentiful, and residents are encouraged to participate in menu planning.  The menu is planned on an eight week cycle, with full use being made of foods that are in season.  This menu is copied and circulated to residents, with additional copies displayed in lounges, the dining room and on the notice board. 

 

Variety is important, likes and dislikes are taken in to account, and special dietary needs are catered for. Alternative meals are always offered from the Chef’s “Daily Specials Board” which is displayed and residents are welcome to make special requests. Residents are free to either help themselves, or to call for drinks and snacks at any time of the day or night.

 

Care planning incorporates assessment of nutritional risk and special dietary requirements.  Where risk is identified, an appropriate course of action will also be documented and the GP will be informed.  If appropriate, the GP may refer the resident to the community dietician.

 


Recreational Facilities

Residents' interests will be recorded, and opportunities will be given for stimulation through leisure and recreational activities both inside and outside the home.  These will be planned in accordance with reference to the combined needs of residents, their preferences and capacities. While residents will be encouraged to participate, their choice in this will be respected.

 

An updated Activities Programme is produced regularly and is displayed on the notice board and circulated to all residents.  Additional copies are available on request.

 

We positively welcome friends and relatives to join us in any activity that we organise, so please feel free to discuss this with a member of staff.

 

Visiting

As with any home environment, we welcome visitors at any reasonable time of the day. However for the convenience of the residents, we ask that visitors avoid the lunch time period of 12 midday to 1.30pm, However, by prior arrangement with the management, we will be pleased to provide a private lunch/tea for the resident and their guests. Again there is no charge for this facility.

 

Visitors are welcome to make use of the kitchen in order to make themselves tea or coffee. There is no charge for this.

 

Visitors are also positively encouraged to join us for in-house entertainment, special events, and also subject to availability of spaces, planned excursions. Children of all ages are especially welcome.

 

We encourage relatives and friends to take the resident out for the day, or even for a holiday. Every assistance will be given in the provision of wheelchairs etc.   If a member of staff is required to accompany the resident on these occasions, a charge will be made to cover the cost of the staff member's wages, as well as any out of pocket expenses.

 

Hunters Lodge recognises the importance of residents' relationships with regard to their well being and the smooth running of the home. Every effort is made to achieve a friendly ambience within the home and encourage and respect client relationships without being intrusive. This is achieved through organising outing’s, introducing clients to each other with similar interests and hobbies and providing facilities for other activities, which will assist in relationship development.

 

Community Facilities

A resident is entitled to the same community facilities as anyone else in the locality. A wide variety of services from visiting chiropodists to library facilities are available to residents in privacy within the home, on a regular basis.

 

We have close links with the village primary school, and residents enjoy attending sporting events, concerts and special celebrations (eg harvest festival and carol service). Various groups, such as the W.I., hold regular meetings in the village, and residents can be assisted with transport if they wish to attend.  A parish magazine is delivered to the home on a monthly basis and this details local events.

 

 

Religious Needs

It is the right of every resident to continue to attend a place of worship of his or her particular faith, and staff will ensure that assistance is given where needed. For those unable to attend services outside the home ministers of religion will be invited to the Home.  The Home will facilitate the observance by individual Residents of those religious festivals that are appropriate to their faith. 

 

Household Pets.

Hunter's Lodge recognises the psychological importance of pets, and every consideration will be given in the accommodation of small domestic pets.

 

No responsibility will however be accepted for any pets brought in to the home, although residents will be given reasonable assistance with their care.

 

Hunter’s Lodge has been recognised by the Cinnamon Trust as a “Pet Friendly” care home.

 

Data Protection & Access To Personal Files

The Home is registered with the Information Commissioner in accordance with the Data Protection Act.  In furtherance of this and the Access to Personal Files Act, all residents are entitled to inspect their personal records held by Hunter's Lodge. These may be accessed at any time, by asking one of the managers.

 

All data regarding residents is maintained under strict confidentiality guidelines and will only be shared with relatives with the consent of residents.  Any instructions given to us regarding such consent will be recorded on the resident’s care plan.  If relatives request access to the personal files of a resident, it would be necessary for us to obtain the permission of the resident concerned, unless they have been awarded Power Of Attorney or have been appointed as a Deputy.  Where the resident lacks capacity, we would make a best interest decision about who should have full access to that person’s care records.  This would usually be limited to the Next of Kin.

 

You are advised that the Care Quality Commission (the Government department responsible for care homes) has powers to demand access to all the records that we are legally required to keep.  This includes personal information regarding residents.  In order to protect residents, information may also be shared with Leicestershire County Council.  If a resident or their nominated representative have any objection to us sharing personal information with these bodies, they should discuss this with a member of the management team.

 

Advocacy

For some residents, advocates and interpreters may be necessary to ensure that they receive support and assistance from the management and staff in understanding, communicating, receiving the right information, and ensuring access to their rights and services.  Residents with  disabilities may find themselves in a vulnerable position where their power to exercise choice is limited.   Good advocacy enables and "empowers" individuals in the process of obtaining the same access to services and resources as other citizens.  Dependant upon the advocacy needs of each resident, the most appropriate service will be accessed on their behalf if the need arises.

 

 

There are certain situations that may arise that may require the input of an independent advocate by law.  These matters are covered by the Mental Capacity Act 2005.  Where such situations arise, the management will arrange for a referral and residents and relatives will be advised accordingly.

 

Legal Advice - Consulting A Solicitor

Residents requiring legal advice are able to visit their own solicitor, or receive a visit from him. The management will assist with the necessary arrangements if asked to do so. However, such meetings are private, and management and staff would not wish to become involved.  If for any reason a signature needs to be witnessed, assistance should be sought from the management.

 

Personal Finances

Finance is a very private and personal matter, and we positively discourage any involvement in the handling of residents’ personal moneys and affairs. Therefore, no employee or officer of the Company are able to accept responsibility for a Resident’s finances. Residents who have the capacity to manage their own affairs will be given the support needed to be able to do so.

 

The management at Hunter's Lodge are able to give informal advice upon state benefits and Local Authority funding that may be available and if necessary will assist with the completion of application forms.

 

All residents are strongly advised to make a Will prior to moving in to the Home. We would ask to be informed of the name of the resident's executor or solicitor.

 

Further advice and information regarding finance is available from a number of sources such as     

Age Concern - Tel: 0800 00 99 66 - www.ageconcern.org.uk

CareAware Tel 08705 134925 - www.careaware.co.uk

 

Fees 

Our fees range from £460 to £650 per week, dependant on the accommodation and level of care required. The weekly accommodation charge is payable four weekly in advance. Arrangements for those receiving a contribution from a Local Authority will be negotiated with the Local Authority concerned.

 

The fee charged is calculated as the cost of providing standard accommodation and services plus the cost of meeting the individual resident’s care needs. As the care needs of each resident is varied and different types of bedroom are available, the fees charged to each resident will differ.

 

There is no differential between fees charged to residents who are funded by the local authority and residents who are self funded.  This may result in a shortfall between the amount that the local authority is willing to pay and the fees charged by Hunters’ Lodge.  In these circumstances, a “third party top up” may be payable.  It is expected that the “Third party” contribution will increase on an annual basis, in line with the increase determined by the local authority.  However, in the event that the Local Authority does not maintain its rates in parallel to the cost of care, we may seek to negotiate a further increase in the third party contribution.  In this event, discussions will be held with the third party at the earliest opportunity.

 

Fees will normally be increased on an annual basis, and one months notice will be given. As staffing costs account for a very large majority of our expenditure, the average earnings index, will form the basis of annual increases.  In the event of significant changes in services that we are reliant upon, or legislation which directly affect our costs, we reserve the right to pass these on by way of increasing fees at a rate above the average earnings index.   However, any such decision will be explained in full, and details of the changes in costs will be explained

 

Our fees include 24 Hour Care; all meals, snacks and drinks including lunchtime/evening sherry, wine or beer; laundry (excluding dry cleaning); All activities and outings organised by us.

 

Optional Extras

Fees paid to the home do not cover the following items but some of these can be purchased on behalf of the resident. 

 

Any Sundry expenses incurred will be added to the next invoice for fees.  For those funded by a local authority, a separate invoice will be raised every 8 weeks and this will be sent to the resident or the nominated representative, along with copies of receipts for any goods purchased on their behalf.

 

Chiropody   All residents have access to foot care under the N.H.S. free of charge, and domiciliary visits are made on a regular basis by the Chiropodists from St Mary's Hospital. In the event of treatment being necessary between visits, appointments will be made for the individual to attend the clinic.   Any resident may of course instruct a Private Chiropodist if they so wish, the cost of which is payable by the resident.

 

Physiotherapy group sessions are held on a weekly basis, with a qualified Physiotherapist, which is provided free of charge.

 

Residents are entitled to community (NHS) physiotherapy if prescribed by a doctor free of charge.  Private sessions are also available, the cost of which will be payable by the resident.

 

Other health services    Regular visits are arranged with a domiciliary optical and hearing services, and appointments with dentists are arranged as needed.   We will assist residents in every way, in order that they can access the care that they are entitled to under the NHS.  Any costs over and above this will be payable by the resident

 

Escort duty (including outpatients and emergency hospital admissions) exceeding that specified under “Provision of Health Care”.  Where staff escorts are needed over and above this provision, a charge may be levied at £10 per hour.

 

Hairdressing    A professional Hairdresser visits the home on a weekly basis. Details of current charges are displayed on the residents’ notice board.  Residents are welcome to arrange for their own hairdresser to attend at any time.

 

Items for exclusive personal use (eg spirits, cigarettes, newspapers)

Although there are always newspapers available for general use, the resident may order his/her own personal newspaper or magazines if they so wish. The cost of such is payable by the resident.

 

A glass of wine, sherry or beer is provided at lunchtime and in the evening.  However if the resident prefers spirits or particular named brands these should be purchased separately.   Similarly, cigarettes and tobacco are not provided.  We are more than happy to purchase such items on behalf of the resident from our wholesaler if requested to do so. 

 

Telephone   Residents may, at any time, make use of the telephone, for either incoming or outgoing calls, in private.  The resident may also have their own telephone installed in their room. Arrangements may be made either direct with British Telecom, or by instruction to the management of Hunter's Lodge. The resident would be responsible for any charges made by British Telecom.

 

Maintenance of personal effects, If requested to do so, we can arrange the purchase of replacement batteries, and minor repairs to personal property if required.

 

Personal Clothing

Residents' should provide personal items such as clothing including shoes, slippers, nightwear, hosiery and underwear, which should be clearly marked with permanent name tapes.  Name Tapes can be ordered by us at wholesale rates.

 

Basic toiletry items are provided by the home but if any specific brand is preferred, these should be provided by the resident.

 

 

Admission

The prospective resident is encouraged to visit the home on a day care basis, at least once prior to admission, and then to stay for a trial period of up to three months, in order to ensure that the facilities and level of care necessary is suitable to both the person and the home.  This trial period will also enable the management to fully assess the needs of the resident, in close consultation with relatives, friends and medical advisers.

 

It is our policy to avoid unplanned admissions where possible.  However, there may be occasions when an emergency arises for an individual, and subject to availability we wish to be able to act flexibly in order to meet that need.

 

Temporary Vacation Of Accommodation

In the event of a resident wishing to vacate their room for the purpose of a holiday with family or friends, a rebate of £25 per week will be given after 2 consecutive weeks

 

If the resident is required to spend time in hospital, a retaining fee will be charged at the rate of 80% after one month has elapsed. This will be charged on a day to day basis.

 

Termination Of Residence

We will almost always be able to offer care until death, but there may be occasions when the needs of an individual cannot continue to be met fully by care staff within the home.

 

This may be because a resident needs specialist nursing care which can not be given by the district nurses or if a resident displays repeated, unprovoked acts of violence against other residents, visitors or members of staff. If such a problem becomes apparent this will be discussed fully with the resident, their relatives, and advice will be sought from the medical professionals involved in the residents care.  

 

In the event of financial difficulty, we would strongly advise that the resident or their relatives speak to a member of the management team at the earliest possible opportunity. Arrears of more than one months fees, would be impossible for us to sustain, and if no reason was forthcoming, we may have no alternative but to ask the resident to leave.

 

In the event of a resident being asked to find alternative accommodation, every assistance will be given. One month's notice will be given.

 

In the event of a resident wishing to vacate his/her accommodation, for any reason, every assistance will be given.  Although we would usually ask for one weeks notice in order to arrange medication etc for transfer, we would not insist upon any notice being served, nor would payment in lieu of notice be required.

 

In the event of termination of residence for whatever reason, fees will only be charged up to the date that the resident’s room is cleared.

 

 

Consultation

The opinions of residents', relatives', friends' and staff are of great importance to us. We positively welcome constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement at all times. Through consultation we can ensure that our Aims and Objectives are upheld, and that the home is meeting all realistic expectations.

 

The residents' care plan is reviewed at least once a month, (or more frequently if the needs of the resident change significantly) and updated to reflect changing needs and current objectives for health and personal care.  

 

The care plan is drawn up with the involvement of the resident and/or their relatives, and we will ask the resident or their relative to agree and sign the document.

 

Senior staff assist in arranging Residents' meetings to discuss any matters relating to the services and facilities provided by the home, including entertainment programmes, menus, staffing etc., and wherever possible, residents requests and recommendations are acted upon. Minutes of these meetings are recorded.

 

We undertake a Quality Assurance audit during the course of each year, which includes the issuing of Questionnaires to residents, relatives, and stakeholders e.g. GPs requesting their views and comments on the operation of the home. The results of this survey is published, and circulated.

 

We are inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Previously we were inspected by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI).  Our Inspection reports are available on request or can be downloaded from the internet at www.cqc.org.uk.  During each year CQC will also issue questionnaires to residents and relatives.  The views expressed will be included in the next inspection report.

 

Commendations

We welcome positive feedback and expressions of appreciation of good care practice, since this helps to maintain staff job satisfaction and morale. 

 

We have a quarterly award for members of staff that have made a real difference to the residents in our care, and we are reliant upon nominations from residents and their relatives.

 

 

 

Complaints Procedure

 

In order to maintain a happy and homely environment, it is imperative that residents, or their relatives, inform us of any problems or grievances that they may have at the time of the problem arising. We guarantee that any concern raised will be dealt with discreetly, promptly and professionally.

 

Minor problems should be brought to the attention of the senior on duty, who will do their utmost to resolve the situation immediately.  The matter will automatically be reported to Allison or Monica.

 

In the event that the complaint is of a more serious nature, or if a minor complaint has not been dealt with satisfactorily, the matter should be raised with Allison or Monica.

 

We would hope that in most cases, any complaint will be resolved very quickly.  In the event that we need to gather complex information, or speak to other people we will guarantee to respond within a maximum of 28 days.  

 

If the complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction or if your complaint is about the home’s management you have the right to go to the next level of the complaints procedure.  The correct route depends on how the care provided is being funded and the seriousness of the concern. 

 

If the care provided is funded by an individual, or if you believe that we are not complying with the law you should contact       

         

The Care Quality Commission - East Midlands

Citygate

Gallowgate

Newcastle upon Tyne

NE1 4PA

Phone           03000 616161        

Fax               03000 616171

Email            enquiries.eastmidlands@cqc.org.uk           

 

If the care provided is funded by a local authority, or if you suspect that any resident’s safety may be of immediate concern you should contact :-

 

                    The Duty Social Worker

                    Leicestershire County Council

                    Leicester Road

Melton Mowbray.  LE13 0DA

Phone           01664 564698

Fax               01664 564390

 

If you are not sure about what to do or who to speak to, and you do not feel comfortable in approaching the home’s management, you can get confidential and independent advice from

Age Concern                     Tel: 0800 00 99 66             www.ageconcern.org.uk

 

CareAware                        Tel 08705 134925              www.careaware.co.uk

 

Action on Elder Abuse       Tel: 020 8765 7000            www.elderabuse.org.uk


Resident’s Rights

The Resident has the right;

·       To receive the services detailed in this document and the individual agreement

 

·       To receive care and support as described in their care plan, and in a way that promotes independence, respect, choice and dignity.

 

·       To be consulted about any change in their care or the running of the Home. 

 

·       To expect that the home will be conducted in such a way as to meet statutory requirements and in a manner that has due regard to the needs of the residents

 

·       To maintain independence where possible, with particular  regard to managing, financial and personal affairs, and to receive or refuse treatment, assistance or visitors

 

The Home’s Rights

The Home has the right to;

 

·       Expect the resident to abide by these Terms & Conditions.

 

·       Expect the resident and their relatives / visitors to treat the management, staff, premises and equipment with respect

 

·       Transfer or assign this Agreement to another Company or person becoming the owner of the Home. The Home will consult with Residents in the event of such a transfer.