The actions taken by the provider included a review of their recruitment and selection policy and procedures. We saw that these reviewed procedures were clear about the necessary checks that would be completed.
People using the agency and their relatives made many positive comments about the service. One relative told us, "They're flexible and fit in with the best times for us and turned up on time." During our visit we observed the flexibility of the service being discussed with a relative. Another person told us 'I look forward to them coming. They (the staff) are always cheerful, puts a smile on your face'.
Staff we spoke with were able to tell us what they should do if they suspected abuse had occurred or was at risk of happening. Staff also confirmed that they had been trained on this by the provider and understood about whistle blowing on poor practices.
For most people employed there were no records of references from previous employers. If there were any concerns about their character they could not be checked by the agency prior to employment.
We saw appropriate risk assessments had been carried out on potential physical and environmental risks to people using the service. We saw records of staff meetings being held for care staff to meet and discuss the needs of the people using the service, any changes and practice issues.