Archived: Adka Independence (East Yorks) Ltd

Care files contained 'pen pictures' that described a person's life history, this included likes and dislikes as well as information about family and friends. A person who used the service said, 'The people that help me know all about me and are my friends. I like the things that we do.'

We saw evidence that the majority of staff had undertaken medication training. We were told by the registered manager, 'Only the staff that have had the training can go to the calls were assistance with medicine is required.'

The provider ensured that staff members regularly updated their knowledge and skills whilst supporting them to gain further qualifications. We saw that training deemed as essential by the provider had been completed as well as specialist training to support specific people who used the service.

We looked at a range of documentation including, staff personnel files, a number of risk assessments, medication audits and medication charts. We found these records to be current, accurate and reviewed regularly.

A relative told us 'I know my son is safe when he is with the support worker, they know him and I trust them to look after him. There haven't been any issues in the past.' Another person said 'He is brilliant; I wish there was more people like him. Yes I am safe when I'm with him.'

Staff were able, from time to time, to obtain further relevant qualifications.

We spoke to the registered manager and were told that 'Four of the staff are currently studying National Vocational Qualifications in health and social care.'

We were provided with questionnaires from the last three years that had been completed by the people who used the service. There was evidence that the provider had listened to people's views and that appropriate changes had been implemented.

The complaints file showed that the service had received very few formal complaints. The manager told us that 'We try and deal with any situations as they arise so they don't become formal complaints.'