During an assessment under our new approach
Date of assessment: 7 to 14 July 2025.
SDL Kingston is a homecare agency providing personal care support to people in their own homes. At the time of our assessment there were 60 older people using the service, some of whom were living with dementia, others had physical health needs. The service was able to provide long term homecare as well as rehabilitation services.
This was the first assessment of SDL Kingston. A comprehensive assessment was undertaken reviewing all quality statements.
People were kept safe and staff understood and managed risks to people’s safety. There were enough staff with the right skills, qualifications and experience. Managers made sure staff received training and regular appraisals to maintain high-quality care. Staff managed medicines well, however, we found improvements were required regarding the administration of medicated pain patches.
People were involved in assessments of their needs. Staff reviewed assessments taking account of people’s communication, personal and health needs. Care was based on latest evidence and good practice. Staff involved people in decisions about their care and provided them with information to enable them to give informed consent.
People were treated with kindness and compassion. Staff treated them as individuals and supported their preferences. People had choice in their care and were encouraged to be as independent as possible. The provider supported staff wellbeing.
Staff provided information in a way people could understand. People knew how to give feedback and were confident the provider took it seriously and acted on it. People received fair and equal care, and staff were respectful of people’s protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010.
Leaders and staff had a shared vision and culture based on listening, learning and trust. Leaders were visible, knowledgeable and supportive, helping staff develop in their roles. Staff felt supported to give feedback and were treated equally, free from bullying or harassment. There was a clear governance system in place and regular review of the quality and safety of care delivery.