This inspection took place on 30 October and 1 November 2018. The first day of the inspection was unannounced. This meant that the provider and staff did not know we were coming.

This is the first time Blossom Hill Care Home has been inspected.

Blossom Hill Care Home is a 'care home.' People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection. Blossom Hill Care Home is registered to provide residential care and support for up to 40 people. At the time of our inspection 24 people were living at the service.

A registered manager was in place. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are 'registered persons'. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.

The service had a warm homely atmosphere. People and relatives we spoke with were complimentary about the care and support provided.

The provider had systems in place to safeguard people from the risk of abuse and discrimination. Safeguarding referrals were fully investigated. The provider recorded, collated and analysed safeguarding concerns and accidents and incidents to identify any patterns or trends for lessons learnt.

A robust recruitment process was in place which included ensuring appropriate checks were undertaken before staff started work. Staff training, supervisions and appraisals were monitored and up to date.

People lived in a safe environment. The premises were decorated to a high standard and were clean and tidy. Health and safety checks were completed regularly. Identified risks were assessed and managed to reduce the risk to people who used the service and others.

Medicines were managed safely. People were supported to access health professionals when required.

Staff supported people to maintain family relationships and links with the local community. We observed staff treating people with dignity and respect. Staff had a sound knowledge of the people they supported. Care plans reflected people’s current needs and were regularly reviewed.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

The provider had systems to monitor the quality and safety of the service provided.

People and relatives told us they had no complaints about the service and knew how to make a complaint. People were supported to engage in activities and access the local community.

People, relatives and staff were positive about the management of the service. The registered manager was approachable and provided strong leadership and direction for staff. Staff told us they enjoyed working at the service and felt supported by the registered manager and the provider.

The provider had systems to audit various aspects of the running of the service. The registered manager ensured statutory notifications had been completed and sent to the CQC in accordance with legal requirements.