Active Neuro Hothfield Kent

The service was separated into two parts. People staying in the Neurological Rehabilitation Unit (NRU) were usually admitted directly from hospital after treatment for traumatic range of acquired brain injuries, along with some neurological conditions (non-degenerative) and spinal injuries. They generally stayed for 12 weeks when they worked intensively on developing their independence with support from nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists and technicians.

People living in The Manor stayed for longer and some had made it their home. Others continued to progress their recovery from brain injuries with the intention of moving on.

At the time of the inspection 18 people were receiving care at the NRU and 10 people lived at The Manor.

Staff contributed to the development of best practice and good leadership. Learning took place and changes were made to how care was delivered when needed. There were a whole range of health care professionals who worked at the service that ensured staff were up to date with best practice and current guidance. Comprehensive training was provided to all staff.

Staff demonstrated a real empathy for people they cared for. Staff involved and treated people and relatives with compassion and kindness. People's preferences likes and dislikes had been taken into consideration and support was provided in accordance with people's wishes. People's privacy and dignity were respected and promoted when personal care was undertaken.

People were able to alert staff when they needed to and there were sufficient numbers of staff available to support them. All the health care professionals had to ensure that they remained fit to practice. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

The service had a strong, visible person-centred culture and was helping people to express their views so they understand things from their points of view. People, relatives and staff were involved in the running of the service.