Archived: Poplar Lodge

People we spoke with talked positively about the service and made comments such as "The staff are alright here, I like it," "I go out to work which was arranged for me" and "I get to see my family I am supported with this."

People also made comments that they were often "bored" and they wanted more activities to do. People told us they often found it frustrating accessing their local community with support because they did not want people in their community to perceive them as "needing a carer because they have learning disabilities."

We looked at how people were involved in their care and found people were invited and did attend house meetings, people were included in any reviews of their care and were supported to access activities such as work and college.

We found people's needs were assessed but care was not always planned in line with their assessed needs. For example, people did not always have structured routines and were not always supported with developing positive behaviours.

People told us they felt safe and that they could inform staff if they did not. We found staff had received training and knowledge to ensure the risks of abuse were minimised.

People were supported by sufficient staff who had received training appropriate to their role. We did find in some specialist areas such as active support and positive behaviour intervention staff required further knowledge and skill.

We found that people's care records were kept securely and fit for purpose.

We spoke with several people who used the service. Everyone we spoke with was complimentary about the care provided.

We observed staff providing care and support to people throughout the inspection. There was a calm, friendly atmosphere around the home and people were seen to respond positively to the staff throughout. People using the service said 'They support me with everything I need. I am now walking to Tow Law independently and do my own shopping. Staff support me but do not push me to do too much.'

The building was clean and well maintained. People we spoke with said "I like my bedroom. I chose the colours and painted it myself.'

We saw people were fully involved in making decisions about their care. For example, many people had an advocate to speak out on their behalf and make sure any decisions made were in their best interests.

We found staff were supported. There was lots of on-going training and meetings where they could discuss issues.

Everyone we spoke with said they knew how to complain and would have no hesitation in doing so. One person said 'I would raise any concerns in the residents meeting. If I had a complaint I would go to my keyworker.'