Absolute Care Services

Updated 11 September 2024

Absolute Care Services is a domiciliary care agency providing personal care to 126 older people, funded by the London Borough of Greenwich. The last rating for this service was Good (published 30 June 2023). This inspection was prompted by concerns about infection prevention, medicines management, and staff call scheduling. We conducted a targeted assessment focused on 6 quality statements under the key questions: Is the service safe and well-led? The assessment team consisted of an inspector and an Expert by Experience. The on-site inspection was announced, and we gave the provider 48 hours’ notice to ensure the registered manager would be available. Inspection activity began on 22 August and concluded on 28 August 2024. We found no evidence that people were at risk of harm. Medicines were well-organised, infection control measures followed best practices, and staff call scheduling was well-coordinated, ensuring punctuality. Staff provided consistent care, supporting the same group of people to meet their personal needs and routines. Staff were thoroughly vetted and trained, with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver safe care. Safeguarding procedures were in place, with staff trained to recognise and report abuse. Managers worked with relevant agencies to ensure people's safety when concerns arose. The provider maintained effective oversight systems to ensure the quality and safety of the service. The managers and staff understood the importance of continuous improvement and learning lessons when things went wrong.

Updated 11 September 2024

People expressed being generally happy with the care and support they or their family members received from this provider. Typical feedback included, “I would recommend this home care agency to anyone and give them 9 out of 10”, “I’m happy with the service they are providing my [family member]” and “The staff are always so lovely and professional”. We spoke with the office-based managers and staff including, the registered manager, the deputy manager, the head of staff recruitment and compliance, the head of staff training, a care coordinator and a supervisor. We found people were protected from the risk of abuse and harm. People were risk assessed and their safety and quality of care and support they received was continuously monitored and well-managed. People received continuity of care from a dedicated group of suitably ‘fit,’ well-trained, supported staff who were usually punctual and familiar with people's individual needs, preferences and daily routines. People were protected from the risk of infection and staff wore personal protective equipment as and when required. People received their prescribed medicines as and when they should. People received good quality and safe home care which was continuously monitored, well-managed and improved by the provider.