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

Archived: NAS Community Services (East Anglia)

Old Barn Cottages, Kenny Hill, Beck Row, Suffolk, IP28 8DS (01353) 672008

Provided and run by:
National Autistic Society (The)

Important: This service is now registered at a different address - see new profile

All Inspections

30 January 2014

During a routine inspection

We spoke with four members of staff and a relative as part of this inspection. We were unable to speak with people who use the service directly at great length due to their very limited communication. However we chatted to two people briefly and observed how staff interacted with them and supported them. We saw that people were involved in their care and it was very centred on them and their needs. One relative told us "It's a marvellous relief to have found somewhere so wonderful. You couldn't wish for anywhere better. It is (my relative's) own home".

We found that people, or their representatives, consented to their care and had their wishes respected. When people were assessed as not having capacity to make their own decisions the service made sure decisions were in their best interests and legal processes followed.

People had person centred care plans which set out their needs and the things that were important to them. Staff administered medicines safely and made sure that people's healthcare needs were met.

There were enough skilled and experienced staff to meet the needs of the people who use the service and we observed staff providing care and support in a respectful, patient and professional manner.

We saw that the service ensured that risks were assessed and managed to ensure that people who use the service, and others, were safe.

23 January 2013

During a routine inspection

Seven people used the domiciliary service, however the people were not able to communicate with us verbally. The people communicated by using facial gestures and body language which included pointing to objects and using picture boards to express their feelings and needs. All the people using the service are represented by their families, social workers and or advocates.

We looked at three care plans and individual assessments, routines and daily activities that were designed with the people who used the service. The individual daily schedule was varied with choices of activities to pursue. The care records we examined were detailed, up to date and included risk assessments.

Two staff told us they had supervision every eight weeks and could raise anything at the time with their senior staff colleagues to ensure the smooth running of the service.