Background to this inspection
Updated
4 April 2024
Background to this inspection
The inspection
We carried out this inspection under Section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (the Act) as part of our regulatory functions. We checked whether the provider met the legal requirements and regulations associated with the Act. We looked at the overall quality of the service and provided a rating for the service under the Health and Social Care Act 2008.
Inspection team.
One inspector completed this inspection.
Service and service type
This service is a domiciliary care agency that provides personal care to people living in their houses and flats. At the time of the inspection, 80 people were using the service.
Registered Manager:
This provider is required to have a registered manager to oversee the delivery of regulated activities at this location. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Registered managers and providers are legally responsible for how the service is run, the quality and safety of the care provided, and compliance with regulations. At the time of our inspection, two registered managers were in the post.
Notice of inspection
We gave the service notice of the inspection. This was because we needed to be sure that the provider or registered manager would be in the office to support the inspection.
Inspection activity is on 29 November 2023, with a visit to the office address. Following this, we continued to request information from the management, relatives, and staff. The inspection ended on 30 December 2023
What we did before the inspection
We reviewed the information we had received about the service since their inspection, and we sought feedback from the local authority about the provider.
During the inspection, we spoke with two registered managers, the nominated individual and the HR manager (human resources). The nominated individual is responsible for supervising the management of the service on behalf of the provider. We also spoke with 12 people using the service, 8 relatives, and 6 staff.
We reviewed a range of records, including People's care plans, medication records, recruitment, and various documents relating to the management of the service, including quality assurance complaints and safeguarding. We also reviewed accidents.
Updated
4 April 2024
About the service
Service for Independent Living provides a service that enables people to live independent lives in their own homes within their own community.
People's experience of using this service.
Not all people who used the service received personal care. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) only inspects where people receive personal care. This is help with tasks related to personal hygiene and eating. Where they do, we also consider any broader social care provided.
People were supported with their medication when required. Risk assessments were completed, and staff had appropriate training.
Staff told us they felt well-trained and supported in their role.
Staff felt listened to and able to contribute to the running of the service. For example, any ideas that could improve the service for people.
The Managers regularly observed staff practice to ensure people were supported safely and as they chose. People were fully involved in all aspects of their care.
Staff had completed training to identify signs of abuse and escalate concerns as and when required risks to people's health and well-being. Individual risk assessments were completed to ensure staff had the information to support people safely.
Staff identified when people were unwell or needed additional support, and referrals were made to medical professionals as required.
The service employed an HR manager to complete the necessary checks on new staff to ensure that only appropriate staff were employed.
Infection control measures were implemented to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
Incidents and accidents were investigated, information was used to improve, and lessons were learned.
Risk assessments were completed, and the staff had appropriate training.
The managers had an open-door policy that meant staff had the opportunity to speak with the managers if they had any concerns.
Staff had regular supervision, spot checks, and appraisals, which gave the manager and staff the opportunity to address any concerns and progress in the organisation.
Audits were carried out regularly by senior staff to monitor the service provided and assess where improvements were required.
Preventing and controlling Infection
Control measures were put in place to reduce the risk of infection spreading. Incidents and accidents were investigated, and the provider ensured personal protective equipment was available. This included gloves, aprons, and masks. All staff had completed training in infection control.
People and their relatives gave positive views about the service provided and some areas for improvement.
The managers welcomed feedback and used the information to improve.
Staff were provided with induction and training opportunities to provide them with the skills required to meet people's needs. The registered manager was proactive in sourcing additional training for the staff when required.
People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives; staff supported people in the least restrictive way possible and in the best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this
practice.
People were treated with kindness, dignity, and compassion. Staff took the time to get to know people and encouraged them to maintain their hobbies and interests.
People's communication needs were understood, and people told us that they felt comfortable and confident expressing their views and sharing any concerns.
People were supported with their medication when required. Risk assessments were completed, and the staff had appropriate training.