8 November 2012
During a routine inspection
As part of our inspection we visited people in their own homes to speak with them about the support they received. We also spoke and observed staff who assisted them.
During one of our visits we spent some time observing four people. This was because people were not able to fully express themselves verbally and relied on other methods of communication. The visit helped us to gather information about how staff promoted and enabled people to be involved in making decisions about their care and support as well as affording them choice and control over their lives. From our observations we found that people enjoyed a good rapport with staff. Interactions were relaxed and friendly.
We also spoke with two other people who received support from the service. One person told us, 'I'm happy and settled', 'I like the staff, they have helped me' and 'I enjoy being able to go out and do the things I like to do'. The second person said, 'The staff explain things so I understand' and 'They know me very well and how to support me'.
Both of the people spoken with were aware that records were maintained with regards to the support they received and that staff supported them in a certain way to help them manage areas of risk.