04 August 2015
During a routine inspection
This inspection took place on 4 August 2015 and was unannounced.
The inspection was carried out by two inspectors.
The Chestnuts is a service registered to provide accommodation with personal care for up to five people who have a learning disability. On the day of our inspection four people were using the service.
There was a registered manger in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People felt safe. Staff had received training to enable them to recognise signs and symptoms of abuse and how to report them.
People had risk assessments in place to enable them to be as independent as they could be.
There were sufficient staff, with the correct skill mix, on duty to support people with their needs.
Effective recruitment processes were in place and followed by the service.
Medicines were managed safely. The processes in place ensured that the administration and handling of medicines was suitable for the people who used the service.
Staff received a comprehensive induction process and on-going training. They were well supported by the registered manager and had regular one to one time for supervisions.
Staff had attended a variety of training to ensure they were able to provide care based on current practice when supporting people.
Staff gained consent before supporting people.
People were supported to make decisions about all aspects of their life; this was underpinned by the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Staff were very knowledgeable of this guidance and correct processes were in place to protect people.
People were able to make choices about the food and drink they had, and staff gave support when required.
People were supported to access a variety of health professional when required, including dentist, opticians and doctors.
Staff provided care and support in a caring and meaningful way. They knew the people who used the service well.
People and relatives where appropriate, were involved in the planning of their care and support.
People’s privacy and dignity was maintained at all times.
People were supported to follow their interests.
A complaints procedure was in place and accessible to all. People knew how to complain.
Effective quality monitoring systems were in place. A variety of audits were carried out and used to drive improvement.