15 August 2017
During a routine inspection
The service provided personal care support and household support to people living in their homes in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire areas. At the time of our inspection a personal care service was provided to 50 people. A small number of other people were supported the household support but this does not come within our remit. The service employed 24 care staff and was actively recruiting additional care staff in order to meet demand to cover care packages.
There was a registered manager in post at the service. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service and has the legal responsibility for meeting the requirements of the law; as does the provider.
People received a service that was safe. All staff received safeguarding adults training. This meant they knew what to do if there were concerns about a person’s welfare. The service had raised concerns appropriately with the local authority where they had concerns. Staff also received moving and handling training so that people who needed assistance to move from one place to another were supported correctly. Staff recruitment procedures were safe which meant unsuitable staff could not be employed. Any risks to people’s health and welfare were assessed and their care was organised to reduce or eliminate the risk and chance of harm. People who were supported with their medicines were supported safely because staff had been trained.
People received an effective service. The care staff had the necessary skills and experiences to meet peoples needs and training was regularly updated. The staff team were well trained, received regular supervision and supported by the registered manager and colleagues to do their jobs effectively. People received an effective service because the care staff were given clear instructions about how they had to support people. Where required, people were supported to have sufficient to eat and drink where this had been assessed as part of their care package. People were supported to access health care services if needed.
People received a caring service. People were satisfied or very satisfied with the service they received and complimentary about the care staff who assisted them. People were treated with kindness and respect. Those staff we spoke with were respectful when talking about the people they helped and knew of the importance of having good working relationships. The views and opinions of people were sought and they were encouraged to have a say about how they were looked after and the way the service was delivered.
People received a responsive service that took account of their specific care and support needs. Assessment and care planning processes ensured each person received a care service that met their own specific care and support needs. Peoples preferences and choices were respected. Regular reviews were undertaken and the care package adjusted as and when needed.
People received a service that was well-led. The registered manager and senior care staff provided good leadership for the care staff. A programme of quality checks had been introduced since the last inspection.