8, 9 May 2014
During a routine inspection
Below is a summary of what we found. This summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people who used the service, their relatives, the staff supporting them and from reviewing records.
If you want to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
Risk assessments were in place and were regularly updated. Where necessary steps to minimise or eliminate risk had been taken. This ensured that as far as possible, people were safe in their homes and that staff were safe in their working environments. One person told us, "They made sure everything was in place and safe, even getting a fire alarm sorted for me."
Staff had been appropriately vetted before they began working for the service and all necessary and relevant checks had been made to make sure they were suitable to work with vulnerable adults.
The provider advised us that they had no concerns where people's liberty might be restricted. They were aware of their responsibilities in this area should any concerns arise.
Is the service effective?
All the people we spoke with told us that they were pleased with the care received. People told us that they were able to talk to the carers, that the carers took time with them and that they were kind. If staff were going to be delayed people told us that generally the office would let them know. However, sometimes carers were late and the person expecting the visit had not been informed.
Is the service caring?
People we spoke with were clear that staff treated them considerately, took time to listen to them and ensured that the support provided was carried out in the way they wished. We were given examples of how people's privacy and dignity were upheld.
Is the service responsive?
People and staff told us that if their circumstances changed relevant re-assessments and checks took place. These were done in a timely manner, records were updated and relevant risk assessments undertaken.
All examples of changes to services provided to people were found to be accurate, up to date and signed by staff and where relevant by service user's or their representative. One person told us how promptly the service had responded to increase the number of visits when the local authority had re-assessed their needs.
Is the service well-led?
Staff we spoke with said how well supported they felt.
One staff member told us, "I have three monthly supervision, spot checks and a yearly one-to-one appraisal. But, if I felt I needed other support or advice I would speak with management straight away. I'm sure they would help in any way they could."
Systems were in place to ensure that people's views about the quality of the service they received were taken into account. There provider planned to introduce a yearly survey of their service users.
You can see our judgements on the front page of this report.