The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated two services run by Seven Steps Support Limited in Sheffield, as outstanding following their first inspection in September.
Seven Steps Support Limited provides care and support to autistic people and people with a learning disability in their own homes, so that they can live as independently as possible.
CQC assessed the service using its right support, right care, right culture guidance. This guidance assesses whether a service guarantees autistic people and people with a learning disability the respect, equality, dignity, choice, independence and access to local communities that most people are able to take for granted.
CQC has rated its supported living service as outstanding for how effective, caring, responsive and well-led it is. Safe is rated as good.
CQC has rated its home care service as outstanding for being caring and well-led. Safe, effective and responsive have been rated as good.
Victoria Marsden, deputy director of adult social care in the north region, said:
“We know that outstanding services are those where people receive truly person-centred support, and that’s exactly what we found at Seven Steps Support Limited.
“Staff were exceptional at treating people with kindness and compassion. They took the time to really understand people’s individual communication needs and consistently adapted their approach so people could understand them. This helped people express themselves and be heard, it also gave them greater choice and control over their daily lives.
“We also heard how staff helped people to achieve their goals. For example, one person was supported to work with a local university to help people understand what it’s like to live with a learning disability. This gave them the chance to share their experiences, raise awareness, and make a valued contribution to their local community, as well as build their confidence at the same time.
“Everyone at Seven Steps Support Limited should be proud of these reports, which reflects the outstanding, person-centred care they’re providing. Other services should look at these reports to see if there’s anything they can learn from.”
Inspectors found:
- Staff shared relevant information with other teams and services in a timely way, so people didn’t have to repeat their story. Health professionals had the information they needed to understand people’s individual needs, preferences and risks so they could provide the support they needed.
- The service recognised the impact bereavement had on people and so provided sensitive and respectful support to them. People were also given the opportunity to attend funerals if they wished to do so.
- Staff supported people to develop coping strategies for managing their anxiety. They introduced mindfulness techniques, guided breathing exercises and relaxation sessions using calming music to help people recognise triggers and manage their emotional wellbeing more effectively.
- People and relatives felt able to raise concerns and were confident they would be addressed appropriately. They described managers as approachable, supportive and responsive.
- Staff consistently told CQC they felt exceptionally well supported and motivated to provide high-quality, compassionate and person-centred care. They felt leaders prioritised their wellbeing and recognised the link between supporting staff, which helped achieve positive outcomes for people.