2 August 2017
During a routine inspection
At the last inspection, the service was rated as Good.
People were unable to tell us about the service because of their complex needs. Relatives told us the service was safe and provided good support for people. Staff said and records confirmed, they were well trained in safeguarding adults and were confident that any concerns would be dealt with by the organisation.
The registered manager understood the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) and the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). This meant they were working within the law to support people who may lack capacity to make their own decisions. Risk assessments had been developed to minimise the potential risk of harm to people who stayed at the service. These had been kept under review and were relevant to the care and support people required.
There were enough staff to care for the people they supported. Checks were carried out prior to staff starting work to reduce the risks of unsuitable staff working at the service. Staff received a comprehensive induction into the organisation, and a programme of training to support them in meeting people's needs effectively.
Medicines were managed and administered safely by staff who were appropriately trained and had their competencies checked.
Relatives told us staff were caring and had the right skills and experience to provide the care required. People were supported with dignity and respect and given choices in relation to how they spent their time. Staff encouraged people to be as independent as possible.
People continued to receive good care. People had developed positive relationships with staff who understood their individual routines and preferences, and knew what was important to them. Staff were caring and treated people with respect, kindness and dignity.
Care plans contained information for staff to help them provide personalised care and reflected people's care needs. People and families were involved in reviews of the care provided with staff and other professionals involved in supporting people.
People were supported to eat and drink well and to access healthcare services when required. We observed regular snacks and drinks were provided between meals to ensure people received adequate nutrition and hydration.
The provider had a system in place to ensure that complaints were recorded and responded to in a timely manner. The registered manager conducted a range of audits to ensure an effective monitoring of the quality and safety of the services. Relatives and staff had regular meetings where they had the opportunity to voice their opinions and have a say in how the service was run.