The Quality Assurance and Improvement Team

The Quality Assurance and Improvement Team (QAIT) work within the Co-Operative Commissioning Team. We monitor and support the improvement of the quality of care provided in the independent care home sector.

QAIT work includes:

• leading on the Dignity in Care Forum
• the Dementia Quality Mark
• Leadership Programme for Registered Managers in Plymouth.

We have built strong relations with our health colleagues, and work closely with the Medications Optimisation Team within the North, East and West Devon Clinical Commissioning Group to improve the safe use and administration of medicines within care homes.

Quality reviews

The Care Home Practitioners within QAIT carry out quality reviews within care homes, working with the Registered Provider and Manager, over a period of two days. The Care Home Practitioners discuss and review documentation, policies and procedures within the home, and, where possible, speak to residents within the home to gain their feedback. We also work with Healthwatch Plymouth to gain feedback, where possible, from residents of the care homes and their families.

Following the Quality Review, the Care Home Practitioners will review their findings and send recommendations to the provider with the aim of improving their service.

Feedback from providers who have had a Quality Review has been very positive and we are committed to working together with care homes.

For more information please email QualityAssurance&ImprovementTeam@plymouth.gov.uk