The Barn and Coach

The registered manager and staff spoke with compassion when referring to the people they cared for. The caring ethos of putting people first, was expressed by all staff we spoke with. One staff told us, "We are encouraged to talk and get to know them [people], they come first."

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.

The service was person-centred and promoted independence. People's nutrition and hydration needs were catered for and people told us the food was very good. People and relatives commented that the service was small and friendly. One relative told us, "It feels like a 'home' with a family atmosphere." Another said, "It's not posh but it's the care we are interested in."

Systems were in place to keep people safe through audit monitoring. Medicines were managed safely, and records showed that people received their medicines as prescribed.

The service worked in collaboration with health and social care professionals. We spoke with one professional who told us that staff were friendly and communicated well with them.

There was a safe recruitment process in place and staff received training and supervision. The registered manager was visible at the service and worked alongside staff monitoring care practices. Staff told us they were listened to and the registered manager was approachable.