6 January 2016
During a routine inspection
This inspection took place on 6 January 2016 and was announced.
Hereford North provides personal care to people with a learning disability who live in their own homes in Herefordshire. 18 people were receiving support at the time of our inspection.
There was a registered manager in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People were protected from harm and abuse because they were supported by staff who knew how to recognise and respond appropriately. Staff did not start work until appropriate checks had been made to make sure they were suitable to support people in their homes.
People and those that mattered to them were involved in planning their own care. Staff understood how to support the people they were assisting whilst protecting their human rights. People had their individual needs met by staff who knew them and responded to any changes in need or wellbeing. Staff sought medical assistance and advice when required. People had regular access to healthcare facilities to maintain well-being.
Staff supported people to maintain their independence and to develop new skills and interests. Staff provided care which was kind, compassionate and promoted people’s privacy and dignity. People were encouraged to make their own choices and decisions.
Staff received induction and ongoing training in order for them to provide care. Staff were supported by the management team and received regular feedback on performance. The managers were approachable and accessible to people and staff.
The provider completed regular quality checks to ensure that good standards of care were maintained.