Archived: Randstad Care Limited - Doncaster

Relatives told us that the service had improved over the last few weeks and there were less staff changes and staff turned up on time.

Relatives told us the care coordinator was very good, if they had any problems they would call her and she listened and acted on any issues or concerns they raised.

They also told us some times if they telephoned the on call service they got the London office and they did not always know what to do. Relatives told us the staff in London did not have the local knowledge.

People we spoke with told us the care they received was good they understood their care and treatment. They told us they had copies of their care plan and were aware of what was written them.

Relatives told us that there had been times when they had seen different care workers at each visit and there was a lack of continuity. However over the last few weeks this had improved, which was better as the regular care workers understood their relatives care needs.

People told us the staff helped them to take their medication.

Relatives told us that the staff gave medication and signed the medication sheets once the medication had been taken.

'Care worker could come any time. I mean anytime. No one lets me know who is coming. Often they are late. Now I don't wait.'

'Most of the time carers arrive on time. It would be helpful if I could be informed in advance of the names of the care workers who would be visiting me.'

'Some young care staff don't know how to talk to older people. They need to be trained. I am sure they are harmless but they need supervision and to be told.'

'I wait for 1/2hour before I ring the office to find out what is happening. Weekends and Bank Holidays are worse. staff don't turn up and office cover is not good.'

'They seem to employ a lot of young inexperienced people. I know they need to get experience but we don't want to be the guinea pigs.'

'The manager and the senior care staff have visited to find out whether I am happy with the service. I have told them what was good and several suggestions for improvement. Don't think they have the support to make the changes.'

'Generally happy with the care workers. Especially the regular carers.'