About the servicePatrick House is registered to provide personal care for up to six people with a learning disability. At the time of the inspection six people were living at the service. Accommodation is provided over three floors, accessed by stairs. A communal lounge and kitchen dining area are based on the ground floor.
People’s experience of using this service and what we found
People told us they liked living at Patrick House. They told us they felt safe and respected by staff. People were supported to lead active and independent lives, in line with their needs and wishes.
People’s care plans contained guidance for staff about how to provide support safely and to minimise risks to people whilst promoting their independence. Staff were trained in their responsibilities for safeguarding adults and knew what action to take if they witnessed or suspected any abuse.
Systems were in place to make sure people received their medicines as prescribed. Staff supported people to maintain their health by making appropriate referrals to community health professionals and acting on any advice they were given.
There were enough staff provided to meet people’s needs. We observed staff were available to support and advise people throughout the day and as people needed this.
The provider had recruitment procedures in place to make sure staff had the required skills and were of suitable character and background.
Staff were provided with regular training, annual appraisals and supervisions, which supported them to conduct their roles effectively.
People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.
The service has been developed and designed in line with the principles and values that underpin Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. This ensures that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes. The principles reflect the need for people with learning disabilities and/or autism to live meaningful lives that include control, choice, and independence. People using the service receive planned and co-ordinated person-centred support that is appropriate and inclusive for them.
People were involved in menu planning and shopping for food, to promote choice and independence. Staff were aware of people’s dietary requirements and preferences.
The provider had a complaints procedure in place. Information about how to complain was provided to people. People living at the service said they could talk to the registered manager and staff if they had a complaint or any worries.
The registered manager understood the regulatory requirements and monitored the quality and safety of the service on a regular basis. Staff displayed a commitment to their role. They told us they loved their jobs and would recommend Patrick House as a place to work and a place to live.
For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk
Rating at last inspection: The last rating for this service was good (published 20 June 2017).
Why we inspected: This was a planned inspection based on the previous rating.
Follow up: We will continue to monitor information we receive about the service until we return to visit as per our re-inspection programme. If we receive any concerning information we may inspect sooner.