Archived: First Choice Homecare

Prior to this inspection concerns had been raised with us that some visits had been missed or were very late. We found there had been problems, but that these were being tackled and improvements had been noticed by staff and by people receiving the service.

We looked at the care notes for eight people and at the care plans for the five people whom we visited. These showed that people's needs were assessed and care was planned and delivered accordingly.

People were protected against the risks associated with medicines. A clear policy and procedures were in place. Staff were required to be appropriately trained before assisting with, or administering, medication.

Prior to this inspection we had been told about a few specific instances where medication might not have been administered at the time required or have been recorded properly. We did not find any evidence of missed or delayed medication or incorrect records.

One person we spoke with told us that, "I was really happy with (My relative's) new care package. The handover from the old team was excellent and the carers value and respect (my relative). They provide exactly the care that is needed."

We looked at care records. These were comprehensive and detailed the care and support people needed. People we spoke with confirmed that there was a copy of these records at their home and that staff updated them regularly.

A range of training was provided to staff to ensure that they had the necessary skills to carry out their role and new measures had been introduced to monitor the quality of the care provided.

Although we had received information of concern prior to the inspection regarding the standard of care, we found that measures had been taken had resolved any issues.