Alpha House - Huddersfield

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.

Some improvements were required in how the service assessed and managed risk, as some risks were managed well, but others had not been identified to ensure the necessary risk reduction measures were in place.

Improvements were needed in how the service recorded behaviours that challenged others. More detailed records would help ensure the effectiveness of the resources available to reduce these behaviours.

Staff were recruited safely. Staff training, supervision and appraisal were not all up to date.

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. However, formal decision specific capacity assessments and best interest decisions had not always been undertaken which meant the service was not acting within the legislative framework.

People were supported to prepare meals of their choice and weights were recorded regularly to ensure their wellbeing. Staff supported people with hospital appointments, and professional visits. Professional advice was sought when required.

People using the service and relatives spoke highly of the caring support provided by the staff and told us people were treated as if they were a member of the family. They were happy with the service provided.

Audits and checks were carried out; however, these were not always effective in identifying areas which needed to be improved. The provider had not notified CQC of significant events as required which showed an issue with the overview of the service.

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. Some people's support focused on them having as many opportunities as possible for them to gain new skills and become more independent. However, for other people the service had identified they needed to look again at their outcomes to ensure goals were continuously reviewed.