Archived: Royal Mencap Society - 15-17 Kew Gardens

We observed the care that was being delivered to people in communal areas of the service. People we met were calm and relaxed and appeared to have been well supported by staff on duty. Staff were observed to have a good relationship with the people living there. They spoke clearly to ensure they were understood and listened carefully to make sure they knew what was expected of them.

We examined a selection of care records. They demonstrated that people's needs had been assessed and that their care had been planned and delivered appropriately.

We examined a selection of staff records. They demonstrated that staff, who had been recruited, had been subjected to a range of essential checks to ensure they were fit to work with vulnerable people. They also demonstrated that staff had been appraised by the manager to ensure they were competent in providing care to people accommodated.

We examined the practices and procedures for storing, administering and recording medication. This demonstrated that medication had been provided to people in a safe and appropriate manner.

Records we saw had been appropriately kept and maintained.

During our inspection we also spoke with two members of staff, the manager and an area manager. Staff that we spoke with expressed the view that they were supported by management to undertake their roles and responsibilities. However we found that formal support was not provided on a consistent basis and was not in line with the provider's policy.