Sefton New Directions Limited - Poplars Resource Centre

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 service was a large home, bigger than most domestic style properties. It was registered for the support of up to nine people. Three people were using the service at the time of the inspection. This is larger than current best practice guidance. However. the size of the service having a negative impact on people was mitigated by the building design fitting into the residential area and the other large domestic homes of a similar size. There were deliberately no identifying signs, intercom, cameras, industrial bins or anything else outside to indicate it was a care home. Staff were also discouraged from wearing anything that suggested they were care staff when coming and going with people.

People's experience of using this service: The service provided short-term, respite care and support in accordance with best-practice. People who used the service and their relatives spoke very positively about their experience and the care provided by staff.

Staff treated people with kindness and respect and supported their dignity in a sensitive manner. People were encouraged and supported to maintain and improve their independence. They were actively involved in decision-making regarding their own care and developments within the service.

Staff knew people very well. They understood their needs and provided effective care to keep them safe. Risk was subject to regular review and was effectively managed. People received their medicines as prescribed from trained staff. The home was clean and generally well-maintained. Refurbishment plans were in place to further improve the environment.

Staff received regular training and support and were equipped to provide effective care. Additional training was available in relation to specialist health conditions. 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.

Care records captured important information regarding people's histories, families and preferences. This information was used to adjust the provision of care to meet each person's needs.

The registered manager, provider and staff promoted an open, positive culture with a focus on high-quality, person-centred care. The registered manager and provider made effective use of audits and other sources of information to review and improve practice. The home had forged links with other services and resources in the local community to support further development.

More information is provided in the full report.