- Care home
Orchard View
Assessment report published 3 July 2026
Contents
Ratings
Our view of the service
The assessment took place on 29 April 2026 at Orchard View. This is a residential care home providing care and support for up to 5 autistic people and people with a learning disability. The service supported 5 people at the time of the inspection.
The service demonstrated many features of ‘Right care, Right support, Right culture’ (RCRSRC) with people receiving person‑centred care that promoted choice, independence and positive risk‑taking.
People were supported by a consistent staff team who knew them well, understood their communication, sensory and emotional needs and adapted their approach to reduce distress and support wellbeing. Relatives consistently described the service as life‑changing and praised staff for going above and beyond, promoting independence and maintaining regular, open communication.
People felt safe and were supported by staff who had received appropriate training and supervision. The environment was generally well maintained and responsive action was taken during the assessment to address identified issues, including dignity, infection prevention and environmental adaptations. Care planning reflected people’s individual preferences, routines and aspirations, and staff supported people to access meaningful activities in the community, supporting inclusion and ordinary life outcomes in line with RCRSRC principles. However, some gaps were identified in medicines practice, recording, governance oversight and timely notifications, which leaders acted upon during the inspection.
Leaders were visible, approachable and fostered a positive, compassionate culture where staff felt valued and listened to. Governance systems were in place, and leaders were responsive to feedback, using learning to improve practice.
People's experience of this service
People had a very positive experience of living at Orchard View and consistently told us they felt safe, valued and supported to live fulfilling lives. Relatives spoke warmly about the atmosphere in the home and the strong relationships between people and staff. One relative told us, “I feel like my (relative) is safe and they go above and beyond… they are the nicest bunch and have the best intentions for my (relative).”
People were supported by staff who knew them well and understood their individual needs, preferences and routines. Relatives described care as ‘person‑centred’ and said staff encouraged people to remain active and independent. One relative said, “They promote (relative) independence… they seem younger and happier.”
We observed staff interacting in a kind, calm and respectful way, with people appearing at ease and comfortable in their surroundings.
People were supported to lead full and active lives and to take part in meaningful activities that reflected their interests, both at home and in the community. These included walking, running, sailing, attending music groups, discos and day trips. Staff supported positive risk‑taking to enable people to develop their skills, access community facilities safely and maintain their independence. One relative told us, “(Relative)goes out every day… they are keen to get (relative) doing everything and anything.”
People were involved in everyday decisions, including what they ate and how they spent their time. They were encouraged to prepare food and drinks where appropriate, and meals were described as healthy and enjoyable. Relatives felt well informed and involved, telling us communication was strong and they were contacted promptly if anything changed. One person said, “They always keep me informed and communicate well.”
Overall, Orchard View had a warm, inclusive and family‑like atmosphere. People experienced care that was compassionate, responsive and focused on maintaining independence and quality of life, with staff taking pride in providing personalised support.