The Glades

We completed a comprehensive assessment due to the time elapsed since the previous inspection and concerns raised about the service. The service had previously been rated good. Following this assessment, the overall rating remained good.

We assessed the service against the principles of ‘Right support, right care and right culture’. The provider did not consistently demonstrate these principles in practice. We identified some risks which had not been effectively managed, topical creams were not always stored safely, environmental hazards had not always been addressed, and governance arrangements were not sufficiently robust. Care plans and risk assessments were detailed and provided staff with clear guidance to meet people's assessed needs.

Medicines arrangements within the community were not always effective. Staff had not been trained to administer medicines when supporting people outside the service, meaning people could not always access medicines when required. This created an unnecessary restriction on people's activities and increased the risk of unmet health needs. The provider took immediate action to address these concerns.

Some areas of the environment required redecoration and refurbishment, with improvement work already underway.

People were involved in planning their care, choosing their food and drink, and developing independent living skills. Records relating to mental capacity assessments, consent to care and treatment, and the legal framework supporting people's care were consistently available. Decision-specific capacity assessments and best interest decisions had been completed and recorded in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA). Care records contained clear information about people's long-term health conditions, including epilepsy, with guidance for staff on how these needs should be managed.

Records and discussions during the assessment demonstrated quality assurance systems required further strengthening to improve provider oversight and ensure issues were consistently identified and addressed. Following our feedback, the provider strengthened internal audit processes.

People, relatives and staff had opportunities to share their views and contribute to service improvements.

The registered manager was experienced, capable and provided effective leadership. Staff spoke positively about the support they received from the registered manager and wider management team. Staff felt well supported in their roles, and the service promoted a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Minor improvements identified during the assessment were addressed either during the inspection or immediately afterwards. The registered manager responded positively to feedback and demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement.