Archived: CAN Partnership The Crescent Bedford

We therefore imposed compliance actions and told the provider they needed to make improvements in these areas. On 4 March 2014, we reviewed the action the provider had taken on the non-compliance to ensure this had been addressed effectively.

We found that the provider had reviewed their documentation and made sure that this was comprehensive and consistent in approach, in respect of pathways for standard operational procedures, including GP Registration, medication prescribing and drug testing. Previously it had not been clear in the records that GPs had been consulted in respect of medication requirements for people and there was the risk that people could 'double prescribe'. The new guidance reduced the risk of this from happening. We saw that a revised contract for treatment programme had been generated, so that people were clear in respect of the medication expectations within the programme.

It was clear that the provider had made significant improvements within their internal systems and processes so that these would assist them in driving future improvement.

We spoke with nine people who were receiving support from this provider. They told us they were fully informed of all the treatment options available to them, and were supported to make decisions as to the treatment that was most suitable for them. People told us they set their own goals of achievement, in consultation with staff, using 'recovery plan maps'. These were reviewed regularly, and where appropriate, the level of support was either increased or reduced to enable people's recovery. One person said, "They've helped me with so many things, they are my rock, they're always there for me".

The staff who worked for this provider were well supported both by their peers and the management of the service. They were provided with training which equipped them with the necessary skill to fulfil their roles, and effectively support people who use the service to address and manage their addictions.

The provider had systems in place to identify and manage risks in a controlled way, and monitor the quality of the service provided. However improvements were needed to strengthen these processes. We saw evidence which demonstrated how the provider made improvements to the quality and safety of service provision based on the opinions of people who used the service.