The Care Quality Commission

Archived: Outward

388 High Road Leyton, London, E10 6QE 07872 502097

Provided and run by:
Outward

All Inspections

11 October 2012

During an inspection in response to concerns

We spoke to people living at Minerva Lodge and telephoned their relatives. We also spoke to relatives of people who used other supported living services provided by Outward. People told us that they were happy with the care provided by Outward. One person said “I have nothing to worry about. The staff are really good. I am happy here.” Another said “staff are good and listen to my requests.”

We found that people’s relatives and staff views were sought regularly in order to improve the service. There were monthly staff meetings and care plans were updated monthly. Risk assessments were up to date. Staff were supported by management to develop professionally and participated in yearly appraisals.

People were involved in planning their day. One person told us, “I go to college twice a week. I also like badminton and netball. Staff help me keep busy which helps my anxiety.” Another person told us that they liked “to go out to eat.” On the day we visited they had just come back from eating out.

There were regular quality audits in place to ensure that people received care and treatment that met their individual needs. For example activities were continually reviewed with people who used the service to ensure that they did what they chose. We saw documentary evidence of how people were supported to do activities of their choice. For example we spoke to a person who confirmed that they were supported to go to netball and cooking.