28 June 2017
During a routine inspection
This was an announced inspection where we provided staff with short notice of our visit. This was to ensure the key staff we needed to speak with would be available. At the time of the inspection the registered manager was away on long-term planned leave. An experienced manager had been appointed in their absence, but had not yet started. We were supported throughout the inspection by the deputy manager.
Staff, people and shared lives carers told us people had happy and busy lives. A member of staff told us, “Just like a normal family you do ordinary things. They are involved and included.” A shared lives carer said, “I think it makes a big difference living in a homely environment and being part of a family.”
People’s safety was protected because staff and shared lives carers had been trained in safeguarding adults, and risk assessments were robust and proactive in maintaining people’s independence. Where incidents or accidents occurred, these were carefully analysed for trends or patterns and actions were taken to reduce the risk of a re-occurrence. Recruitment was robust for both shared lives carers and staff working in the service. People’s medicines were managed safely.
People were supported by shared lives carers and staff who received the right training and support to undertake their role effectively. People’s rights were respected and they were supported to access health or social care services as and when they needed to.
The service had an extremely caring approach that meant people were leading happy lives. People’s independence was promoted at every opportunity and there was a highly person-centred approach to how the service was developed and how it could be shaped by people.
The service assessed people’s needs thoroughly and care planning was undertaken with people to ensure their full involvement. People decided on what goals they wanted to achieve and staff and shared lives carers supported them to develop their independence and skills.
The service was well led with an emphasis on improvement and learning from people. There were a range of quality assurance mechanisms in place to ensure the service people received was safe, effective, caring and responsive.