During this inspection the Inspector gathered evidence to help answer our five key questions; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?During the inspection we looked at care and welfare, cooperating with other providers, staffing, quality assurance and complaints.
This is a summary of what we found, using evidence obtained via observations, speaking with staff, speaking with relatives of people who used the service and looking at records:
Is the service caring?
We observed staff administering care and support with kindness and patience. People were given choices and gentle encouragement with daily living tasks and staff took the time to understand people's non-verbal communication methods and techniques.
We spoke with the relatives of two people who used the service. One person said, 'Staff are always pleasant. They listen when I tell them something is wrong and don't dismiss it. You seldom get a team that is open to discussion. My X's abilities fluctuate and staff need to manage these changes. I feel they always do their best'. Another relative told us, 'They care for X brilliantly and do things with him that I couldn't possibly do'.
Is the service responsive?
People's support plans and health action plans were personalised and individual. Their particular preferences, backgrounds, interests and pastimes were documented. Each person who used the service was treated as an individual and the support given and activities undertaken were tailored to their specific personalities, needs and wishes.
People who used the service, and their relatives, were involved in all aspects of their care planning, delivery and discussions with other agencies and professionals.
Reviews of support plans and risk assessments were undertaken on a monthly basis, or responsively to changing needs. Other agencies and services, such as Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) and Physiotherapy were accessed as and when needed by each person.
People's decision making abilities were taken into consideration in line with the Mental Capacity Act (2005) (MCA) to help ensure decisions were made in the person's best interests.
Complaints and concerns were responded to appropriately.
Is the service safe?
There were appropriate risk assessments in place in the care records and guidance was available for staff to follow. Risk assessments were regularly reviewed and updated with changes appropriately recorded.
Health and safety equipment was regularly checked and serviced and emergency procedures were in place.
There were adequate numbers of staff on duty to ensure people were cared for safely. Staff training was on-going to help ensure their knowledge and skills were up to date.
Is the service effective?
We observed staff making efforts to ensure people were comfortable and content in the home. We saw people respond to staff in a positive way. We spoke with three staff members who demonstrated a good understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
We saw comments from other agencies and professionals which indicated their satisfaction in the effectiveness of the service.
Is the service well-led?
There was a manager in place who was appropriately registered with the Care Quality Commission.
The service worked well with other agencies and services to make sure people received their care in a joined up way. There was evidence of appropriate information sharing with other professionals.
We saw up to date records of a significant number of checks and audits which were undertaken. The results of these were analysed and any shortfalls addressed, to help quality assure the service delivery.
Staff told us they were given good guidance and support in their roles. They said they felt confident to speak with the manager if they had any issues to raise.