THE care and dedication of staff at a care home in Old Hall has been praised by inspectors following a recent visit.

Representatives of the Care Quality Commission were impressed by workers at Westvale House, who spent ‘as much time as possible’ chatting and interacting with residents.

Inspectors also highlighted the good standard of coronavirus infection prevention and control measures, with staff being tested three times a week to prevent an outbreak.

A purpose built, heated visiting pod in the grounds of the Old Hall Road-based care home was another positive feature installed by management for the benefit of residents.

Inspectors paid an unannounced visit to the home in January for a routine check of infection prevention and control measures.

In their report published this month, they said: “Effective use was made of available Covid-19 testing for both people living at the home and staff members.

“Staff were tested using rapid testing twice a week in addition to the weekly testing programme, meaning most staff members were tested three times each week.

“Staff members were checked for symptoms at the start of each shift including the testing of their temperature.

“People living at the home were checked for the main symptoms of Covid-19, including their temperature, twice each day.”

The CQC noted how senior staff ensured that there was always a good supply of PPE and hand gel at convenient locations throughout the home, and all staff had received training in infection prevention and control.

“The home was kept clean by a housekeeping team who had received additional time and resources to help them keep the home as clean as possible,” the report continues.

“There was a purpose built, heated visiting pod in the grounds of the building that people's friends and family could book for a socially distanced visit.

“Staff arranged for the visiting pod to be cleaned between each visit. Staff told us that this had been popular with visitors.

“There was Wi-Fi and internet access available throughout the home and people had been supported to make video and phone calls to friends and family.”

Staff told inspectors that they felt supported throughout the pandemic, and that they felt proud of how they had been able to support people.

One staff member said: “It has been very emotional, but we have made sure people are safe.”

Another added: “We have supported each other to remain positive, cheerful and upbeat. This really helps the residents.”