25/06/2019
During a routine inspection
We rated St Thomas Fund as good because:
- Staff supported clients to safely complete their community drug or alcohol detoxification treatment with a local substance misuse service. St Thomas Fund provided accommodation for clients completing their community detoxification treatment programme in premises that were safe, clean, well equipped, well furnished and well maintained.
- Staff carried out a comprehensive assessment with each client, before they accessed the service. The assessment incorporated physical and mental health, plus social support needs. Staff referred clients to partner agencies as appropriate.
- The prescribing doctor at the local community substance misuse service conducted a face-to-face consultation with all clients before prescribing medicines to them. Staff reviewed the effects of medicines on patients’ physical health regularly and in line with National Institute of Health and Care Excellence guidance.
- Client care records contained a comprehensive, up-to-date risk assessment, which included a risk management plan in relation to potential risks associated with an unexpected exit from treatment.
- Client recovery plans were written with the joint input of the clients and their support worker. The recovery plans were holistic, addressed all the identified needs of the clients and based upon the strengths of the client, to enable the client to build upon their personal strengths towards recovery.
- Staff had completed all mandatory training, including safeguarding children and adults. Staff also completed a wide range of specialist training, to enable them to effectively carry out their roles.
- Staff were discreet, respectful, and responsive when caring for clients. They gave clients help, emotional support and advice when they needed it. Staff understood and respected the individual needs of each client.
- Clients expressed strong, positive views about the service accepting dogs, subject to individual risk assessment. They told us that not allowing dogs into the service would have constituted a significant barrier to accessing treatment for some people.
- Clients could give feedback on the service and their treatment and staff supported them to do this. Clients participated in recruitment interviews for new members of staff and service contract review meetings with commissioners.
- Clients had access to a range of activities and complementary therapies, such as massage, meditation, acupuncture, creative writing, mindfulness, yoga, cycling and badminton. Clients attended mutual aid groups throughout the week.
- The management team had the skills, knowledge and experience to perform their roles. They had a thorough understanding of the service and a clear understanding of how their service worked with other agencies, to meet the needs of clients.
- Staff expressed enthusiasm and pride in their work. They felt supported and respected by their managers and able to raise concerns without fear of retribution.
However:
- At the time of our inspection, there was no risk assessment in place for a selection of exercise equipment in the garden.