The Care Quality Commission
  • Services in your home
  • Homecare service

Archived: PCA Independent Living Solutions LLP

Amron House, Suite 3, Borough Road, North Shields, Tyne and Wear, NE29 6RN 0844 535 0111

Provided and run by:
PCA Independent Living Solutions LLP

All Inspections

11, 22 July 2013

During a routine inspection

We found that before people received care and support they were asked for their consent and the provider acted in accordance with their wishes. Comments included, "Everything is planned and discussed with me and they respect any decisions I make," "They always treat X with respect and ask her what support she would like" and "They always ask X what he would like to do."

People told us the staff were very caring and friendly. Comments included, "I've used other agencies and this one is by far the best, they are always on time, they discuss my support needs with me. I have used them for 12 months and have received really good support" and "We receive the same carers who are very rarely late. X chooses where she wants to go and they are very flexible if X wants to change the visit times. I have peace of mind that X is enjoying herself and being looked after."

We found there was information and effective systems in place to help protect people from the risk of infection.

We found there were effective recruitment and selection processes in place so appropriate staff were employed to care for people who used the service.

We found the provider regularly assessed and monitored the quality of service that people receive. People felt their views were taken into account and the management were always open to suggestions.

30 January and 1 February 2013

During a routine inspection

We found that people's privacy and dignity were respected and they received appropriate care which met their needs. People said, "They are always very polite and ask me what I prefer" and "They are very nice people who treat me very well".

We spoke with two people who used the service and one relative. Positive comments were received about the quality of care. People said the staff were very caring and they were reliable. Comments included; "I couldn't cope without them, they are great, wonderful, fantastic" and "They always turn up on time, all the carers who visit are very good and we have a good laugh".

We found the provider had systems in place to prevent abuse from happening and people who used the service told us they felt safe.

People told us that the care staff were helpful and well trained. However there was insufficient evidence to show appropriate checks were carried out before staff began work at the agency to ensure the safety of the people who used the service.

There was an appropriate system in place for dealing with complaints and the people who used the service told us they knew how to make a complaint.

Care plans were not in place which meant that people who used the service may not be protected from the risks of unsafe and inappropriate care, for example supporting someone to go out in the community and supporting them to manage their finances.