Ashgate Cottage

The service has been developed and designed in line with the principles and values that underpin Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. This ensures that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes. The principles reflect the need for people with learning disabilities and/or autism to live meaningful lives that include control, choice, and independence. People using the service receive planned and co-ordinated person-centred support that is appropriate and inclusive for them. The home was small and personalised, with no obvious signage indicating it was a care home. The feel of the service was homely and determined by people's needs.

All relatives were confident in staff and their ability to keep people safe. Staffing levels were regularly reviewed and appropriate to people's needs.

All incidents and accidents were documented and analysed to help identify any developing patterns.

Staff worked well in conjunction with a range of external healthcare professionals. They also had access to an internal team of occupational health and other specialists.

Staff were well supported with a range of ongoing training, supervision and informal support.

People's needs were comprehensively assessed and continually reviewed. Staff had a comprehensive understanding of people's communication needs.

Activities were geared towards people's interests and there was a strong person-centred culture. People's rooms were pleasantly decorated to their tastes and communal areas updated following consultation with people.

Relatives and staff told us the service was well-managed. The provider had in place clear quality assurance and auditing processes. The registered manager continually sought ways to improve the service with a view to helping people live full lives.

The service applied the principles and values of Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These ensure that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes that include control, choice and independence.

The outcomes for people using the service reflected the principles and values of Registering the Right Support by promoting choice and control, independence and inclusion. People's support focused on them having as many opportunities as possible for them to gain new skills and become more independent.