The Rivers

The Rivers is a 'care home'. People in care homes receive accommodation and personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection.

People's experience of using this service: • Although the registered manager ran a well organised service, the providers audits had not identified the registered manager had not notified CQC when Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) applications had been authorised. During the inspection we spoke with the registered manager to ensure CQC was notified in these cases. • The provider sought the views of people's relatives and took opportunities to improve the service. Staff were supervised, supported and clear about what was expected of them. Audits and checks were carried out, so any problem could be identified and rectified. • The provider had processes in place for recruitment, staffing levels, medicines management, infection control and upkeep of the premises which protected people from unsafe situations and harm. • Staff understood their responsibilities to protect people from abuse and discrimination. They knew to report any concerns and ensure action was taken. The registered manager worked with the local authority safeguarding adults team to protect people. • Staff were trained and supported to be skilled and efficient in their roles. They were very happy about the level of training and support they received and showed competence when supporting people. • The premises provided people with a variety of spaces for their use with relevant facilities to meet their needs. Bedrooms were very individual and age and gender appropriate. • Staff promoted people's dignity and privacy. Staff provided person-centred support by listening to people and engaging them at every opportunity. Staff were very kind and caring and people using the service were calm. • Support plans were detailed and reviewed with the person when possible, staff who supported the person and family members. Staff looked to identify best practise and used this to people's benefit. Staff worked with and took advice from healthcare professionals. People's health care needs were met. • People had a variety of internal activities (such as music and cooking) and external activities which they enjoyed on a regular basis. • People were 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 supported this practice.

The care service has been developed and designed in line with the values that underpin the Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidelines. These values include choice, promotion of independence

and inclusion. People with learning disabilities and autism using the service can live as ordinary a life as any citizen.

For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk.