Allington House - PAMMS Assessment Report

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council (SBC) are utilising the Provider Assessment and Market Management Solutions (PAMMS) in our quality assurance process. PAMMS is an online assessment tool developed in collaboration with Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) East and regional Local Authorities. It is designed to assist us assess the quality of care delivered by providers.

The summary table below detail the PAMMS assessments undertaken for the contracted Older Persons (OP) care home throughout April 2025 to March 2026.

Date of inspection

6 to 8 October 2025

Date assessment was published

29 October 2025

Date previous assessment was published

3 February 2025

PAMMS Assessment Summary (Positive Outcomes, Observations and Concerns)

Allington House uses an electronic care planning system (Person Centred Software) that enables the development of highly personalised care plans. Each resident's plan includes an "About Me" section, outlining preferences, key relationships, communication styles, and specific needs. Real time updates are logged throughout the day. Visual indicators, amber for overdue tasks and green for completed ones help ensure timely care delivery. Although the system does not support resident or family signatures, their input is captured through monthly reviews and designated sections such as "Supported to write this section" or "Care need discussed with person or legitimate representative."

During the assessment, staff were consistently observed engaging positively with residents, demonstrating dignity, respect, and kindness. Staff promoted independence by knocking before entering rooms and maintaining friendly, courteous interactions. These practices reflect a strong commitment to resident well-being, with individuals appearing well cared for and supported.

Each resident's room features a coloured dot system at the entrance, indicating the presence of key documentation such as Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR), or Emergency Health Care Plan (EHCP). Monthly reviews of care plans and risk assessments were evident, and daily records were consistently maintained across essential areas including nutrition, mobility, toileting, meals, mattress checks, and hygiene. Residents had access to food and drinks outside standard mealtimes. A snack trolley offered fruit, biscuits, tea, and coffee between meals, while refreshment stations with crisps and biscuits were available throughout the home. Jugs of juice were also accessible in residents' rooms. During the food standards inspection on 29 September 2025, the home achieved a 5-star rating.

The manager conducts thorough audits, with actions recorded in the Service Improvement Plan overseen by the regional manager. Fire safety checks, including alarms, detectors, lighting, and equipment were up to date. The latest fire risk assessment was completed in October 2024 and is due for renewal in October 2025. Fire drills were documented.

A comprehensive maintenance matrix is maintained, covering Fire Risk Assessments, Portable Appliance (PAT) Testing, Gas Safety Certificates, Fixed Wiring Certificates, Legionella assessments and water temperature checks. Mattress inspections and window restrictor checks were also recorded.

Staff and resident interactions indicated a secure and calm environment, with strong relationships evident. Staff demonstrated clear knowledge of safeguarding procedures, whistleblowing policies and external reporting channels.

Medication management was robust. The medication room was clean and secure with controlled drugs stored in locked cupboards and trolleys. The home uses paper Medication Administration Records (MAR charts), verified by two staff members upon receipt. Administration records were complete and discrepancies were addressed through regular audits.

Risk assessments and safe working systems were documented, covering areas such as oxygen storage and bath hoist usage. Clear signage supported navigation throughout the premises. Dementia friendly design features included coloured handrails, distinctive bedroom doors and clear bathroom signage. The manager is liaising with the local authority to implement the Stockton Dementia Friendly Care Home Guide, as required by contract.

Staff files confirmed completion of all employment checks, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and right-to-work documentation. A structured 12 week induction programme is in place, followed by a probation review. Training aligns with the Skills for Care Certificate, with refresher sessions for NVQ3 qualified staff.

All staff received supervision and appraisal within the past year, with additional supervisions scheduled for the current month. The manager has been advised to ensure bi-monthly supervisions are maintained, in line with the local authority contract.

Plans and Actions to Address Concerns and Improve Quality and Compliance

No areas were identified that were 'Requires Improvement.'

Level of Quality Assurance and Contract Compliance Monitoring

Level 1 - No Concerns - Standard monitoring

Level of Engagement with the Authority

The provider has a good and open relationship with the Quality Assurance & Compliance (QuAC) Officer and responds to requests for information in a timely manner.

Engagement and Support from Transformation Managers

Allington House engage with a vast range of opportunities and initiatives available through the Transformation Team, including the Well Led Programme, Activity Coordinator Network, training sessions, research projects through the National Institute for Health and Care research (NIHR) and Provider Forums. The leadership team and wider staff team are keen to link with peer networks across the Borough and are open to working collaboratively.

Current Care Quality Commission (CQC) Assessment - Date of Report Publication and Overall Rating

Date of inspection

13 September 2019

Overall rating

Good