Abberley House is registered to provide respite accommodation for up to nine adults with learning disabilities who require temporary accommodation and personal care. At the time of our inspection two people were using the service overnight and two people were using a day centre facility. Our inspection was unannounced and took place on 7th January 2016. The service was last inspected on the 13 May 2013 where it met all of the standards.
The manager was registered with us as is required by law. 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 a legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People told us that they were kept safe.
People received medicines appropriately.
We observed there were a suitable amount of staff on duty with the skills, experience and training in order to meet people’s needs. Relatives told us that they were able to raise any concerns they had and felt confident they would be acted upon.
People’s ability to make important decisions was considered in line with the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Staff interacted with people in a positive manner and used a variety of communication methods to establish their consent and/or understanding.
People were supported to take food and drinks in sufficient quantities to prevent malnutrition and dehydration. People’s health needs were met.
Staff maintained people’s privacy and dignity whilst encouraging them to remain as independent as possible.
People and their relatives were involved in the planning of care and staff delivered care in line with what was considered to be people’s preferences and wishes.
The complaints procedure had been given to people and their relatives in a clear and understandable way.
People, their relatives and staff spoke positively about the approachable nature and leadership skills of the registered manager. Structures for supervision allowing staff to understand their roles and responsibilities were in place.
Systems for updating and reviewing risk assessments and care plans to reflect people’s level of support needs and any potential related risks were effective.
Quality assurance audits were undertaken regularly by the provider.
There had been no instances where notifications were required to be sent to us, but systems were in place to do so if required.