30 September 2014
During a routine inspection
This report is based on our observations during the inspection, talking with four people who used the service and three staff members. We spoke with the manager and reviewed records.
During this inspection we set out to answer our five questions; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?
Below is a summary of what we found. If you wish to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
We found that risk assessments were in place to minimise risks to people who used the service. Where accidents had occurred these had been reported and appropriate action had been taken. Staff had access to policies and procedures and these had been reviewed regularly.
Is the service effective?
We saw that people's needs were assessed and care was delivered to meet their documented care needs. Staff we spoke with understood people's care needs and demonstrated that they knew how to meet people's needs and what to do if they noticed any changes or concerns. When appropriate, other professionals were involved in the care and treatment of people who used the service.
Is the service caring?
We received positive feedback from people who used the service. They told us that staff were respectful, reliable and considerate. One person told us 'The staff are very caring'.
People who used the service were involved in assessing their needs and developing their care plan. Care was delivered in line with people's support plan. When additional support was needed the service was flexible. For example, if a person needed urgent additional care or they needed to change their times this was responded to.
Is the service responsive?
We found that the manager of the service acted to address concerns as soon as they were identified. Staff explained how they responded to different people according to their different needs. They used different communication methods to help people to communicate their choices.
Is the service well-led?
Staff we spoke with told us that the manager of the service was approachable and they were able to seek advice and guidance whenever it was required, this included out of hours.
We looked at the way the quality of the service was assessed and monitored. We found that a number of spot checks were carried out to ensure that appropriate standards of care were maintained, people's care plans and risk assessments were reviewed regularly. People had opportunities to make their views known.