The Care Quality Commission
  • Services in your home
  • Homecare service

Archived: Allied Healthcare Maidstone

Ascot House, Ground Floor Suite, 22-24 Albion Place, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5DZ (01622) 695915

Provided and run by:
Allied Healthcare Group Limited

All Inspections

20 June 2013

During a routine inspection

We visited the agency office; we looked at for example care and support plans, medication charts, policies and procedures. We spoke to 10 people who used the service and five family members on the phone to gain their views of the service. We did ask the manager to provide a list of people using the service that we could survey however this was not forthcoming and given the time delay we decided to produce the report without that information at this time. We also spoke with eight staff at the office and by phone.

People told us that the staff were reliable, normally turning up at the expected time, and staying for the full length of the call. People commented; 'The staff are so kind and I look forward to the visit,' 'I am never rushed and get the chance to do what I can for myself.'

Care and support plans were detailed and highlighted any possible risks which through effective management could be minimised. People told us that the agency went through the plans with them at least twice a year to make sure they were happy with the support provided.

The staff had been trained to support people with their medication; however monitoring systems had not prevented some charts not being completed fully. Therefore it was not possible to be sure if people received the medication they were prescribed.

They had an effective complaints procedure the information from which had been used to improve the service they provide.

20 November 2012

During a routine inspection

People we spoke with felt well supported by the staff team. One person said, "They're pretty good at everything. They always turn up when I expect them and I always get the member of staff I expect too". Another person said, "Our carer always has time to speak to X (person using the service) and she maintains his dignity even with personal care. She never makes him feel different and she allows him to do as much as he can but never more than he can manage". We found that people received care and support in line with their needs and that this was delivered in a safe and competent manner. We found that staff were supported by the provider with training and their professional development. We saw that the provider acted to ensure that the quality of care delivered was constantly monitored and improved.

9 December 2011

During an inspection in response to concerns

We were told that, as far as practicable, independence and individuality are promoted. People were supported, enabled and encouraged to express their views and make or participate in making decisions relating to their care and treatment.

One person told us 'I am very pleased with my current carer. She comes to give me showers and does the housework. I've no complaints about her at all. In the past I've had people that aren't so good. They don't really talk with me about a care plan.'

Another person said 'The carers do what I want, they're very good. Sometimes they turn up a bit late. I have the care plan here, but I don't really have anything to do with it.'

One person said 'Oh yes, I feel safe with them, they're excellent.'

One person said 'No, I'm not asked what I think about the service.' Another told us 'I don't think I've received a questionnaire.'