Archived: Stepping Stones Services

People were happy with the support they received and said it met their needs. One person said, "If it wasn't for the service I don't know where I would be. The service is like a pair of velvet gloves to me.'

We saw comprehensive medication support plans and declarations. The declarations identified the commitment the service would take to support people with their medication.

We looked at the recruitment procedures available for the service. We saw suitable references had been received and relevant checks had been made, before anyone had started working with people using the service.

People said they were involved throughout their support and they were continuously asked for feedback. One person said, 'I am asked what I want and then how I want to do it, if I'm unhappy about anything I can change my mind, nothing is a problem.'

One person spoken with during our visit told us they had consistent and regular staff that had 'never missed a session'. Staff were described as 'reliable and punctual', 'very flexible and fit in with me' and 'they are respectful and polite'.

Staff recruitment procedures need to be improved to show that a robust process has been followed so that people are protected.

Suitable arrangements were in place to support and develop the staff team. This could be enhanced with more quality training in areas specific to the needs of people supported by the service.

Policies and procedures needed reviewing so that information reflected the conduct of the service.

Systems were in place to monitor and review the service provided ensuring people received a good standard of care.

Staff spoken with said, 'The manager is very supportive', 'we are offered a lot of guidance and advice' and 'they [the management team] listen to you and support you both personally and professionally'.