Archived: Millside

We used a number of different methods to help us understand the experiences of people who used the service. During the day we sat with people who used the service and observed their daily activities including lunchtime and observed their interactions with staff. We spoke with staff and reviewed documentation including three care plans.

From what we observed and noted as part of the inspection staff cared for the people who used the service appropriately. Food and drinks were specially prepared to ensure that people had a nutritious and balanced diet. Comments from the expert by experience included that he was pleased to see that each person had a person centred plan and that staff tried to include everybody in the community as much as they could.

Medicines were safely administered. The provider had systems in place to assess and monitor the quality of service that people received.

There were enough qualified, skilled and experienced staff to meet people's needs. Staff had received appropriate professional development and training to ensure they could meet the needs of the people who used the service.

All service users had lived at the home for at least five years and had both learning and physical disabilities, many requiring special aids and adaptations.

From what we observed and noted as part of the review staff cared for the people who use the service appropriately and were aware of issues of consent and choice. The staff told us that the manager was supportive of them and ensured that they had regular supervision. Staff could tell us what they would do if someone reported abuse to them. Staff also told us they tried to ensure that people's dignity and human rights were respected throughout the care planning process.

The provider may wish to note that the training records indicated that over a third of staff had not had any safeguarding training in the last two years. However, in discussion with staff they gave us assurances that they would know what to do if an incident occurred. The manager should ensure that all staff continue to be kept up to date with safeguarding training.