Longford

Services for people with learning disabilities and or autism are supported. Longford is a domestic house which 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 received planned and co-ordinated person-centred support that is appropriate and inclusive for them.

The service was in a residential area on a road with 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 did not wear a uniform or anything that suggested they were care staff when coming and going with people.

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 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.

The service held records on a computerised system which meant staff were able to access up-to-date information which they could update when care and support was provided. Systems to safeguard people from abuse were in place.

There were sufficient staff to meet people's needs. The recruitment process helped ensure potential staff were safe to work with people who may be vulnerable. Staff received training and the support needed to carry out their role. Staff undertook training when they first started working at the service. Staff updated their training regularly to ensure they were up to date with best practice.

Where there were restrictions placed on people, these were done within legal requirements, such as the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Staff were knowledgeable about how to support each person to minimise risks to themselves while enabling them to have a fulfilled and enjoyable life. The service used positive behaviour support principles to support people in the least restrictive way. Where restrictive intervention practices were used, these were documented and supported people to remain safe.

People received their medicines from staff who had been trained to administer mednage the storage, administration and disposal of medicines.

The manager had registered with the Care Quality Commission and understood their responsibilities. Audits and checks were carried out to ensure the safety and quality of the service. Senior managers visited the service regularly and engaged the registered manager and staff in improvements.