Alexandra House - Harlow

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. People's needs were assessed before they moved into the service to ensure they could receive the care they required. Staff had the skills and experience to provide care and support to people. Staff provided support to people with health monitoring and referred people to healthcare services when required. People were supported to eat and drink enough to ensure they maintained a balanced diet.

People were supported to follow their interests and participate in social activities. Care plans detailed how people wished and needed to be cared for. People and relatives felt included in the planning of care and knew who to complain to if they needed to do so. People, their relatives and staff told us there was a positive atmosphere at the service.

There were systems in place to monitor the quality of the care provided. Regular audits were undertaken, and any actions identified completed. The registered manager and regional operations director took immediate action in response to any minor concerns found during the inspection.