A PEEBLESSHIRE care home has been ranked 'good' following an unannounced inspection.

The inspection of Garvald West Linton, which was completed on October 25, evaluated the quality of service provided to adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.

In supporting wellbeing of people within the home and the quality of the staff team, it was found as being 'good.'

At the time of the inspection, 31 residents were being supported by the service.

The inspection found that the care provided at Garvald West Linton is "empathetic and inclusive".

Residents, who often cannot communicate verbally, benefit from staff using varied communication tools, including sign language, visual aids, and technological devices.

People enjoy a range of recreational and social activities that emphasise creativity and physical health, supported by well-maintained facilities.

Health and well-being are prioritised through balanced diets, physical exercise, and access to essential healthcare.

A Care Inspectorate spokesperson said: “There was a strong emphasis on health and well-being at Garvald West Linton. People were supported to eat healthily and engage in a broad range of activities which focused on exercise, artistic and creative expression.

“We observed people participating in structured and more ad-hoc activities. We were impressed by the enthusiasm with which people participated. There was often laughter and good natured dialogue between people and staff. This helped create a homely and nurturing care setting.

“In addition, people were enabled to go on holiday, maintain family contacts and friendships within their peer group at the home and in the community.”

They added: “The service engaged well with community and health based agencies around maintaining people’s health and well-being. Pro-active approaches helped ensure people had access to fundamental health and social care supports essential to their well being. 

“These approaches helped the service met people’s well-being needs in keeping with the Scottish Government’s national strategic initiatives for people with learning disabilities, as outlined in The Keys to Life.”

However, minor issues were identified in medication administration, with errors prompting the need for ongoing improvements and staff training in medication procedures.

Documentation of cleaning procedures, particularly for high-touch surfaces, also required improvement, according to the report, to ensure compliance with infection prevention and control standards.

Improvements in protocols around epilepsy management and ensuring all plans are regularly reviewed with the input of relevant professionals were suggested.

Garvald West Linton’s staff are recruited according to best practices, creating a team that understands the values of compassionate, person-centred care.

The induction process supports new staff, who benefit from the mentorship of more experienced colleagues.

This peer support system is a feature of the team’s operation to help foster a positive working environment.

While the staff team is strong, the report identified specific training needs, particularly in areas such as autism support, stress management, and medication administration.

Enhancing these competencies would ensure that the team remains well-prepared to address the complex needs of residents effectively.