Archived: Shared Lives Scheme

The service has sent us an improvement plan telling us how they would ensure the above standards were met. We reviewed this plan and looked at other documentation as part of our inspection.

We found that systems were now in place to monitor and support the carers training needs and that some carers had been booked onto relevant training.

The service had a statement of purpose that met the requirements of regulation 12 and schedule 3 of the Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009.

We were given an action plan and saw copies of draft surveys that provided us with evidence that a quality monitoring plan was now in place. We saw actions in the plan to ensure that both new and existing information was collated and where required improvements to the service could be made.

We were told by carers approved to work for the scheme, that people supported by them received a good level of support and care. Carers also said that people had opportunities to make their own decisions, lead independent lives where possible and engage in activities within the community. Carers also provided, where required, more intense support with personal care and financial situations.

We found that the scheme had systems for approving carers, for safeguarding people from harm and for quality assuring some aspects of its performance. However, there was a lack of development in all of these areas. We also found that the training needs of carers had not been properly planned for or updated during the last year. Carers told us that the scheme provided a much needed and appreciated service to people.