Archived: Unique Care Services (Cheshire)

' I couldn't wish for a better service. The carer I have is marvellous and goes that extra mile to make sure I'm ok.'

' I'm happy with the service. The staff are on time and the same staff visit. The staff treat me with respect and promote my dignity.'

'The service is very good.'

Questionnaires were sent out by the agency to the people who used the service in March 2012. At the time of our visit seventeen had been returned. The majority of responses showed that people were happy with the service provided. Some considered it to be satisfactory. Some comments showed that there were aspects of the service where people considered improvements needed to be made. These included punctuality of staff, being able to contact the office after 5pm and weekends, lack of involvement in reviews of care plans and quality of care. During our visit the manager explained the action that had been taken to address these matters and further measures planned.

The relative we spoke with was complimentary about the service provided. They said the staff kept them informed and that the staff were caring, considerate and helpful.

The people spoken with knew how they could make their views known if they were not happy with the service provided.

We asked Cheshire West and Chester LINKs and Cheshire West and Chester Council for information about how the service operated. No information from LINKs was available at the time of writing this report. The social worker for two people who used the service reported that a good service was provided, that carers were reliable and provided the care and support that was requested.

* LINKs are networks of individuals and organisations that have an interest in improving

health and social care services. They are independent of the council, NHS and other

service providers. LINks aim to involve local people in the planning and delivery of

services.