The Care Quality Commission
  • Community
  • Community healthcare service

Archived: Turning Point - Midpoint Hertfordshire Also known as Midpoint Hertfordshire

Office 1, 1 Higgins Walk, Hitchin Rd, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 4YP (01438) 367545

Provided and run by:
Turning Point

All Inspections

8 November 2013

During a routine inspection

Before people received any care or treatment they were asked to provide their consent to the support they needed and records showed the provider acted in accordance with their wishes. One person who used the service told us, 'When I came here [staff] explained how the home works, what the rules are, and what I can expect from [staff]. I get asked all the time if I give permission for this thing or that thing, or who they can talk to on my behalf.'

Care and support was planned and delivered in such a way as to meet people's needs. One person who used the service told us, "The staff are interested in me and what I'm doing. They give me feedback which helps me see where I am at.'

We found that staff cooperated with others involved in the care, treatment and support of people who used the service when the responsibility was shared with one or more services, individuals, teams or agencies.

Staff were supported through a regular system of supervision and annual appraisal to review their performance and set development objectives. Staff received a range of suitable training and were supported where appropriate to obtain further qualifications.

People's care records were accurate and written in a clear and jargon free manner. We saw that people's records were updated as appropriate both by staff at Midpoint and by visiting professionals. We saw that people's confidential information was stored safely and securely.

22 January 2013

During a routine inspection

When we visited Turning Point - Midpoint Hertfordshire on 22 January 2013, we spoke with four people using the service about the support they had received. They all told us they were very satisfied with the service and felt that it was a safe environment for them to regain their confidences in preparation for a more independent lifestyle. One person said, "I find it really good, the staff are nice, helpful and supportive but I'm totally in control of my choices."

We observed that people were offered support at a level which encouraged independence and ensured that their individual needs were met. Everyone that we spoke with was at a different stage of their journey towards independent living. One person had just arrived and was being supported to regain skills such as cooking and shopping, and another was ready to move on and live independently. They said, "I've always been treated well here, and had good opportunities to express my views, but now I feel ready to move on."

There was a relaxed atmosphere in the home and people were at ease in the company of the staff who supported them. The staff were friendly and polite in their approach and interacted confidently with people.

The provider had systems in place to ensure people were involved in the quality monitoring processes for this service. People were encouraged to share their views and opinions to help improve the standard of care provision.