7 November 2013
During a routine inspection
The relative told us they had consented to the person's needs being assessed and information on their needs being gathered.
This showed that consent was sought by a person who had sufficient knowledge about the person who used the service.
People were given information about the service before they joined. The relative that we spoke with commented, 'They went through the service user agreement with me.' This showed people or those acting on their behalf had sufficient information to enable them to make informed choices about the service.
Staff members demonstrated a good understanding of the safeguarding procedures and told us how they would respond to any signs or allegations of abuse. People could be confident they were supported by staff members who could identify; report and respond appropriately to suspected abuse.
Appropriate checks were undertaken before staff began work. One staff commented, 'I had to wait for my DBS to come through before I could start work.' This showed the service ensured staff members were of good character before they started work.
Regular spot checks were undertaken. We reviewed a follow up action note by an assessor who observed a staff member carry out incorrect practice. This demonstrated there were systems in place to ensure staff members were carrying out their job roles effectively and processes to follow when this did not occur.