3 June 2014
During a routine inspection
We considered our inspection findings to answer the questions we always ask;
Is the service safe?
The provider had a safeguarding procedure in place and staff were trained how to identify and respond to incidents of abuse. People told us they felt safe when receiving their care.
Risks to people were not fully identified to keep people safe. This meant that people may have been put at risk of harm. The provider did not have appropriate systems in place for managing the risks and for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness at the premises where was organised. We have asked the provider to tell us how they will make improvements and meet the requirements in relation to risk management.
People told us that they felt their rights to dignity and privacy were respected.
Care workers received induction and on-going training to undertake their role.
Is the service effective?
People had a plan of care that gave details about their care needs. The provider could put in place a more effective system to gain people's views about their care.
Most people were happy with the care provided. They told us that care was provided at the correct time and staff stayed the correct length of time.
Is the service caring?
People told us that staff were friendly and caring. People said that their care was not rushed. Comments included: "Happy with the service", "They treat me nicely" and "They are like friends".
The provider completed an annual satisfaction survey in 2013. Actions had been taken to improve the service following this.
Is the service responsive?
The service had a complaints procedure and when complaints were made they were acted upon.
Health care professionals told us that the agency worked well with them to make sure that people received appropriate 'end of life' care.
Is the service well led?
The service had systems in place to monitor people's care. Spot checks were made on care practices and daily records were regularly checked. Where these showed shortfalls the service told us these were acted upon although records of these actions were not kept.
Telephone reviews of care were completed and when people's needs had changed plans of care were updated.
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