Hawthorn Court

The following is CQC's published account of its assessment, published 12 June 2025. References to “we” mean CQC. It describes findings at that time.

Date of assessment: 23 April to 13 May 2025.

Hawthorn Court is a care home providing accommodation and personal care to a maximum of 62 older people, younger adults, including people who may live with dementia, physical disability or sensory impairment needs. At the time of our unannounced visit, 61 people were using the service. A manager was in post who had applied to become registered with the Care Quality Commission.

People, relatives and staff spoke positively about the manager and the changes and new initiatives introduced at the service. However, some improvements were required to some systems and governance to ensure people received safe, effective and person-centred care.

The environment was well-maintained, bright and welcoming and people enjoyed a well-cultivated garden. There was a good standard of hygiene. There was an on-going programme of refurbishment around the home. We signposted that the environment should be appropriately designed to meet the needs of people who may live with dementia or a dementia related condition to keep them orientated and informed.

People received a varied diet. We discussed the improvements that could be made to people’s dining experience to ensure people received appropriate support if needed.

Staff knew how to support people in a way which respected their decisions and supported them to make choices. Information was accessible, however, people did not always have information in formats to suit them, for example, when choosing meals or activities for the day.

There were sufficient trained staff who worked with other professionals to ensure people's needs were met in a safe way. However, as staff were busy, people werenot always engaged and occupied with activities, if they wished, and they did not always receive timely care.

Most risks to people had been assessed and care plans were in place to help mitigate risks as far as possible. Care records were detailed and reflected people's care needs. Accidents and incidents were investigated thoroughly, action taken, and lessons learned. Overall medicines were managed safely but some improvements were needed to medicine management.

Equipment was available to meet people’s needs and to help maintain their independence. People’s mental capacity and ability to consent was taken into account, and people and their representatives were involved in planning their care and support. Staff received training to help ensure they were competent to carry out their role to ensure people’s care and safety.

There was robust recruitment of new staff. People, relatives and staff spoke positively about the service and management. People, relatives and staff were consulted and asked to give their feedback about service provision.

Governance was mostly effective, however more frequent audits were needed, to ensure and maintain the quality and safety of service provision.