The inspection was carried out by one inspector. Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people who used the service, staff who supported them and from records we looked at. We also spoke with a district nurse whose team visited the home twice a day. There were six people using the service at the time of the inspection.If you want to see the evidence that supports our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
A person who used the service told us, 'I like living here, I like the staff and I feel safe.'
People living in the home had assessments of risks to their health and welfare and these were reviewed at least every six months. We found that people were not put at unnecessary risk but also had access to choice and remained in control of decisions about their care and lives.
People and those acting on their behalf told us staff respected their rights and dignity. Suitable arrangements were in place for obtaining and acting in accordance with people's consent in relation to their care and support.
Staff recruitment practice was safe and thorough. Policies and procedures were in place to make sure that unsafe practice was identified and action taken to ensure the safety of people.
Systems were in place to make sure that staff learned from events such as accidents, incidents, practice shortfalls, complaints and concerns. This reduced risks to people and helped the service to continually improve.
The home was clean and well maintained. A range of audits had taken place to ensure the safety of the environment.
Is the service effective?
Records showed that people's health and care needs had been assessed and their support plans were up to date, reflecting their current needs.
Staff had received training to ensure they had the skills to meet people's needs.
The registered manager and senior staff were accessible to staff for advice, guidance and support.
Is the service caring?
People told us they were happy with arrangements for their care and support. One person stated, 'I like living here, staff are kind.'
We found staff to be knowledgeable about people's preferences and lifestyle choices. They were attentive to people, with high levels of engagement. Their interactions with people and their general approach was friendly, cheerful, caring and respectful.
Is the service responsive?
The home had a robust safeguarding procedure. This ensured an appropriate response in accordance with local multi-agency procedures for the protection of people from abuse or risk of abuse.
People and those acting on their behalf had been informed of the procedure for making a complaint or expressing a concern. People could be assured the home had effective systems for investigating and responding to complaints.
Systems were in place for analysing incidents, complaints and safeguarding alerts. These had been taken seriously and appropriate action taken.
Is the service well-led?
The service employed a suitably qualified, experienced registered manager. At the time of the visit they were managing two homes, supported by senior staff in both establishments. They were positive about the training opportunities available to them. Their continuous training and development had enabled them to perform their role and manage the home effectively.
We saw that staff worked in partnership with other professionals, agencies and services, ensuring people received seamless care and support.
The service had a quality assurance system. We saw that identified problems and opportunities to change things for the better had been addressed promptly. As a result the quality of the service was continuously improving.
Staff told us they were clear about their roles and responsibilities. They said they received good support and guidance from the registered manager. They demonstrated understanding of the home's ethos and values and commitment to ensuring people received a good quality care and support.