4 Old Barn Close

At our last inspection we rated the service good. At this inspection, we found the evidence continued to support the rating of Good and there was no evidence or information from our inspection and ongoing monitoring that demonstrated serious risks or concerns. This inspection report is written in a shorter format because our overall rating of the service has not changed since our last inspection. At this inspection we found the service remained Good.

Why the service is rated Good:

People's safety and well-being had been considered by the service and steps had been taken to minimise the risk of harm. Care plans and risk assessments had been completed to minimise the risks associated with the delivery of care. Records were up to date and trained staff administered medicines to people. Supplies and equipment used in the service were maintained and checked.

Prior to moving into the service, each person had their needs assessed. People are supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service support this practice. People's relatives spoke positively about the food available in the service.

Staff training was not always provided in line with the demand, meaning staff had to wait to refresh or attend training. We have made a recommendation about this. Staff were supported through supervision, training and appraisals to carry out their role. Staff meetings were provided to encourage clear communication and updates.

We were told and we observed how staff showed kindness and a caring approach towards people. People's privacy and dignity were protected. Care plans detailed how people communicated with staff. This allowed staff to understand the simple gestures people made which indicated pleasure or dislike. Staff knew people well and understood their preferences. People's care plans were personalised and focussed on their specific needs.

Information was obtained from people's relatives verbally and through a questionnaire as to how the service could be improved. Staff told us the managers were accessible, open and honest. They felt supported by the management and spoke positively about their management skills.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found