31 January 2014
During a routine inspection
The registered manager and deputy manager told us how they assessed each person referred to the service, obtained personal details and consent, completed an assessment and then developed a support plan. A care services agreement was completed and signed by both parties.
We spoke with relatives who were very positive and grateful for the service. We received comments such as "they are good as gold", "I can phone at any time", "I used to have no time to myself, now I have some time to collect my thoughts" and "they are wonderful, I don't know how I'd manage without them".
The staff we spoke to were very clear about their role and responsibilities, and they completed regular training to maintain and update their skills and knowledge. The staff were very committed to the service and we received comments such as "the society are very keen to promote training and you always learn something". This comment was from a long serving member of staff. Another said "I have been very impressed with the training and support we get".
A health professional who has worked with the service for a number of years confirmed that they found the team very helpful, knowledgeable and supportive. This person said they liaised often to discuss different approaches to use with people and their support had been invaluable.