The Care Quality Commission
  • Community
  • Community substance misuse service

Archived: South Tyneside Harm Reduction Service

96-98 Fowler Street, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, NE33 1PD (0191) 275 8000

Provided and run by:
NECA

All Inspections

24/25 February 2016

During a routine inspection

We found the following areas of good practice:

  • There were enough staff to meet the needs of people using the service. Staff had access to a range of mandatory and other specialist training. This included training in the delivery of brief health interventions.
  • The service had developed effective links with other healthcare professionals to support the wider health needs of clients.
  • Staff were caring and respectful towards clients.
  • A mobile needle exchange was available for clients who could not access the service.

However, we also found areas that the provider could improve:

  • The rear door access to the premises was not covered by a camera which made it difficult for staff to establish who was being given access to the building.
  • Client records were not stored securely. This was resolved during the inspection, with a keypad being installed on the door to the records room.
  • Completion of non-mandatory training was not being monitored effectively.

19 August 2013

During a routine inspection

We spoke with two people who had used the service who were very positive about the service they had received. One person told us, "Being able to walk in and get what you need is great'. 'It puts my mind at rest and helps me to know that I'm safe." Another person said, "The staff are really great and I thank them for what they've done for me. They explained everything to me that I need to know, and I have told my mates."

People told us that they had provided written consent before any tests had been carried out, and told us they were confident their information was stored securely. One person said, "My privacy is paramount to the staff here. I know that they will keep all of my information confidential."

There were processes in place to ensure staff were of good character and suitably qualified to work within the service.

The service had effective ways of checking and monitoring the quality of its service which included the views of people who used it.

26 September 2012

During a routine inspection

We spoke to two people during their visit to the service. One person receiving treatment told us the staff team had always been respectful, considerate and understanding. This same person went on to say his privacy and dignity had been respected by staff at all times. We were also told, 'Staff never leave you alone, there is unbelievable support here. Staff are always asking me if I am okay or if I need anything.' The people we spoke with were very positive about the support they had received saying, 'I love this place, and the staff are fantastic'. 'I have been to other places before but this is by far the best.'

One person we spoke with described staff as 'absolutely fantastic' and gave a good account about how staff had supported him during a period of distress. This same person also said, 'The best thing about this place is the staff, it's not a job, they seem to really care'. Other comments people told us about the service included "The staff just know if you are feeling low 'and "I couldn't have gotten through this without them, I feel very lucky".