TWO care services in Lockerbie are celebrating after receiving top marks following an inspection.
The Care Inspectorate praised the “warm, gentle and encouraging” manner of staff at Trinity Lodge and Trinity House.
They are specialist residential services offering care and support for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.
The unannounced inspection took place in March and both sites were rated with ‘very good’ grades – the second highest possible mark – in the ‘how well do we support people’s wellbeing?” and ‘how good is our staff team?’ sections.
Inspectors praised the services, with key highlights being the “flexible and personal” care, the connections made with the local community, the positive communication with carers, activities being tailored to people’s individual interests and abilities, and that the staff team knew people they supported very well.
The official report has now been published and says: “Staff interactions with people were warm, gentle and encouraging. The home had a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Staff treated people with dignity and respect and were focussed on achieving the best outcomes for the people they were caring for.
“Care was delivered at a pace suitable for each person. Staff worked hard to create a positive environment which helped to contribute to people feeling safe and valued.”
Praising the quality of staffing, inspectors also noted: “Staff we spoke with were committed, flexible and dedicated to providing the best possible service to the people they supported. It was evident that staff had a real commitment to providing support to people they work with.
“People were supported by staff who knew them well and had a good understanding of their needs, some of which were complex. This meant that staff were able to identify and respond quickly to any changes in people’s health.”
Service manager Lorraine Platt is delighted with the outcome of the inspection.
She said: “I am incredibly proud of the team and the outstanding work they do every day. The report reflects the passion, dedication and care the staff put into supporting each individual at Trinity Lodge and Trinity House to live a fulfilled life.
“I am particularly thrilled that the inspectors recognised the warm, person-centred environment we have here and how the professionalism, warmth and empathy of the staff team contribute towards that.
“It is wonderful to see the inspectors recognise how well we know the individuals we support, and how personal and tailored our care is to their interests, needs and aspirations. Building strong, positive relationships – not just within our homes, but also with families, carers, professionals and the wider community – is at the heart of everything we do.
“I want to thank our amazing team, the individuals we support, and their families for making Trinity Lodge and Trinity House such a special place.”
