This inspection took place on 7 April 2017. The visit was unannounced.

Shottermill House is a care home providing residential care for up to 31 older people, some of whom are living with dementia. The home is Christian home where worship and prayer are part of daily life. At the time of our inspection there were 27 people living at the service.

There was not a registered manager in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission 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 registered manager had left the home on 31 March 2017. A new manager was due to start on 10 April 2017.

People and their relatives told us that they felt safe living at the service. Care records contained up to date risk assessments to keep people safe whilst encouraging independence. Risks to people were managed and staff followed guidance in relation to risk.

People were protected against the risks of potential abuse. Staff understood safeguarding adults procedures and what to do if they suspected any type of abuse.

People were supported by a sufficient number of staff to meet their individual needs. The provider had followed safe recruitment practices

Medicines were administered safely and on time. Medicines were stored securely and in an appropriate environment. Staff authorised to administer medicines had completed training in the safe management of medicines and had undertaken a competency assessment where their knowledge was checked.

There were appropriate plans in place in the event of fire. Each person had an up to date Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) which identified what support would be needed to evacuate the home in case of fire.

Staff worked in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). People had their mental capacity assessed for specific decisions. DoLS applications had been made and staff had received MCA/DoLS training.

People received individualised care from staff who had the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to carry out their roles. Staff had undertaken induction training and on-going training as required.

People were supported by staff who had supervisions (one to one meetings) and an annual appraisal with their line manager. Staff received supervision three times a year.

People’s dietary needs and preferences were met. Staff monitored people’s food and fluid intake when required and made a GP appointment if they had any concerns about people. Records contained information on the food preferences of people and the kitchen staff were aware of these. People who needed support to eat were assisted by staff.

People’s health care needs were monitored and any changes in their health or well-being prompted a referral to their GP, mental health team or other health care professionals.

Staff treated people with dignity and respect and were caring. Staff knew people well. They were knowledgeable about people’s needs and backgrounds.

People were encouraged to be independent. Care records contained information on people’s strengths and what they could do for themselves. Observations on the day showed people were able to be independent as they used communal areas and facilities independently.

People were involved in the running of their home. Regular meetings happened where people could contribute. Relatives and friends were able to visit the home at any time.

Care plans were detailed and contained information on people’s lifestyles and preferences. Staff were very knowledgeable about people and what was in their care plans. People and their relatives were involved in developing their care plans. Annual reviews of people's care took place that included the person and their relatives.

People had a range of activities they could be invol