Archived: County Care (Windsor)

At our inspection on 5 November 2013 we found the provider had not completed all the recruitment checks required under Schedule 3 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2010 before staff began work.

At our inspection on 12 March 2014 we found the provider had completed all the required recruitment checks for staff employed by the service. A full employment history was recorded for care workers in each recruitment file we looked at. We saw evidence that gaps in employment history that were previously identified had been investigated, and a satisfactory written explanation recorded. All other recruitment checks required were documented.

We did not speak with people who use the service or staff at this inspection, but we did discuss recruitment procedures with the provider.

We saw people's needs were assessed and reviewed regularly to identify changes required. Staff identified potential risks and took appropriate actions to ensure people were supported safely. People and staff told us communication worked well to ensure updates were shared promptly. One care worker said 'There's good communication.'

The provider ensured people were protected from the risk of abuse. Staff attended safeguarding training and were aware of actions to take if they suspected people were at risk of harm.

Recruitment checks were undertaken. We found some of the information required in accordance with Schedule 3 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2010 was not available. We did not see explanations of gaps in employment history, but other requirements such as Disclosure and Barring Service checks and proof of identity were completed appropriately.

The manager regularly communicated with people who use the service to ensure care was provided in accordance with their needs and wishes. We saw evidence of audits conducted to identify where improvements to the service were required. Action plans recorded progress towards the completion of identified improvements.