Our current view of the service
Updated
4 April 2025
Date of assessment 30 June 2025 to 11 July 2025. 8 Acres is a care home for people with a learning disability or autistic people and consists of 2 main units, The Barns and The House, as well as some single occupancy units.
At our last inspection the provider was in breach of legal regulations in relation to safe care and treatment, person centred care, safeguarding, need for consent, staffing and governance.At this inspection we found enough improvement had been made and the provider was no longer in breach of legal regulations.
People were supported to live meaningful lives. Risks to people were well managed. Systems were in place to ensure people were protected from the risks of harm and abuse. We found there were sufficient levels of staff, and they were suitably trained. The provider ensured people had choice and control over their lives. Systems and processes to oversee the management and governance of the service were in place. There was a focus on people’s quality of life and care delivery was person centred. The provider and registered manager promoted people’s rights, choices and independence.
People's experience of the service
Updated
4 April 2025
The service provided deeply person-centred care, fostering trust, independence and emotional well-being across a diverse group of individuals. Staff were consistently described as attentive, compassionate, and well-trained. One person said, “I completely trust [Staff]. They help me and I can talk to them about anything,” A relative said, “Staff will look out for [Person], it’s a lovely feeling, knowing [Person] is safe there.” Living environments were designed to support individual sensory and aesthetic preferences, including cabins for personal collections and self-decorated flats. One person commented, “I love my cabin; I have everything I need here. I don’t like clutter in my flat.” Independence was encouraged through participation in household chores and everyday responsibilities, such as cleaning, laundry, and food preparation. “[Person] will spend time with the staff cleaning their flat,” said a relative, while another person affirmed, “I take the bins out, that’s my job.”Communication was personalised, incorporating Makaton (a form of sign language), key-ring visual aids, and picture cards. Staff ensured people’s gender identities were accurately reflected in care plans, even when preferences varied day to day. Care plans were collaborative and responsive, with staff involving individuals and families in shaping support. One person said, “If I have any problems I tell [Staff] and they sort it out.”Feedback mechanisms like surveys and a family-run forum drove service improvements. People enjoyed regular holidays, outings, and hobbies that suited their interests, including pool, bowling, zoo visits, and trips to local events. A person proudly shared, “I go swimming, bowling, and to the showgrounds. I love the animals and tractors!” The collective feedback underscored a culture of dignity, autonomy, and joyful engagement.