We set out to answer our five questions during our inspection; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?At the time of our inspection there were four people living in the home. During our inspection we observed the staff interactions with people that used the service in the communal areas of the home. We examined the care documentation and supporting records to make a judgement on the quality of care that people received.
We spoke with three people that used the service who were able to tell us of their experiences and we spoke with one member of staff to gain their understanding of how they met the needs of people living in the home.
Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, discussions with people using the service, their relatives, the staff supporting them and looking at records.
If you wish to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is it safe?
Staffing was maintained at safe levels. During our inspection people's needs were responded to in a timely manner. People we spoke with told us they enjoyed living in the home. One person told us 'Yes I am happy, I like X'.
Procedures were in place and staff understood their role in safeguarding the people they supported. All staff received regular training in safeguarding adults. The member of staff we spoke with during our inspection had a good understanding of who they needed to contact should they have any concerns around people's welfare.
People who used the service were cared for by staff who knew how to protect them from the risk of abuse. The home had policies and procedures in relation to the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Records confirmed no one currently living in the home was subject to such an application. However, relevant staff had been trained to understand when an application may be required. This meant that people were safeguarded from abuse.
Is it caring?
People were supported by sensitive and attentive staff. Comments we received from people living in the home were positive. Comments included: 'X is my keyworker. X is nice'. 'I'm going out today with my Dad. I like that'. Another person told us, 'We had a BBQ'.
We saw that care staff showed patience and gave encouragement when supporting people. The observations we made demonstrated staff supported people in a calm unhurried manner, using communication methods in line with their individual assessed needs.
Is it effective?
We found people's health and care needs were assessed with them and reviewed regularly. Care plans provided guidance for staff to follow to ensure people's individual specific needs were met. Care plans were reflective of people's current level of need. It was clear from our observations and from speaking with a member of staff they had a good understanding of people's care and support needs and that they knew them well.
Is it responsive?
People received co-ordinated care. We saw evidence in people's care plans that demonstrated people had been visited by their GP and other health care professionals. For example, people's files held information and advice sought from the Community Learning Disability Team (CLDT).
Records demonstrated people were also visited by their social worker and other professionals when the service had noted a change in their needs. People's support plans were adjusted to reflect the advice that was given.
Is it well led?
A stable management team was in place. We were told the registered manager was approachable and staff we spoke with felt supported by the whole management team. Staff comments included: 'X is very supportive they put me through my diploma level 2 & 3' and 'We are a good team'.
People that used the service, their relatives and external professionals completed a satisfaction survey once a year. The member of staff told us if any concerns were raised these would be addressed promptly. People were encouraged to raise any concerns or worries on a daily basis and at residents meetings. Minutes we viewed confirmed this.