Archived: 9 Sunnyfield Avenue

Throughout our visit we saw people moving freely around the home and engaging in individual activities. One person told us that she was going out to pick a prescription up from the chemist and that she enjoyed helping out in the home.

We found the atmosphere to be relaxed and homely and people living there appeared to be content and comfortable. One person told us, 'I like living here. I have been here 12 years and I am happy.'

We were consistently told that privacy and dignity was well respected and that a strong focus was placed on encouraging people to be independent and actively involved in decision making.

A member of staff said, 'There is a big focus in every client having a proper conversation about what they would like to do in the short term and for the rest of their lives.'

Staff spoke positively about the training provided.

One person told us that she liked her key worker and was often asked if she was happy with everything or if there was anything she to wanted to change. We were told, 'I am happy as things are, you don't get a better home than this.' This same person went on to say, 'We have a key worker to help us out and see we are alright and check on us. My key worker is so lovely and so kind, like a sister to me. They (the staff) support us very well; I would give them 1000%.'

Staff confirmed that care files were detailed and comprehensive, readily available and kept under constant review.

When asked, the clients spoken with told us that they felt safe living at the home. One person told us that Sunnyfield Avenue was, 'A happy place' and that, 'Everything is alright, staff look after us and help us.'

The clients we spoke with had no hesitation in telling us that they knew who they would speak with if they did have anything to say or were unhappy with anything, and that they would say it.

Clients are provided with an easy read complaint procedure, the content of which is also verbally discussed. However, it was clearly apparent that clients were encouraged to verbalise any concern immediately so that any issues could be quickly addressed.

One client did tell us that she was still asked if she was happy with everything or if she would like anything changed, 'But I don't, they support us very well, we chat, have hugs and they (the staff) make nice brews.'

Staff told us that there was an open and inclusive atmosphere at the home and that they could make suggestions or raise issues knowing that these would be considered and acted upon.

A member of staff said, 'The ambience is very good, we also look after and support people very well. Clients want for nothing and we support people to tell us if anything is on their mind. We encourage people to do different things and we have good staff.'