Longridge Court

The service was developed and designed before Registering Right Support came into existence. Despite this, the service was managed in line with the principles and values that underpin Registering 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.

The service was a large home, bigger than most domestic style properties. Six people could be accommodated in the main house, three people in 'the annexe' and three people in 'the view' (flat above the main house). Each unit was self-contained with its own front door and communal rooms. The building design fitted into the residential area and was in keeping with other large domestic homes in the area. There were deliberately no identifying signs, intercom or cameras outside to indicate it was a care home. Staff did not wear a uniform when supporting people at home and when accessing the wider community with them.

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. When restrictions were needed to maintain people's safety, for example, when going out into the community, the least restrictive approach was taken. Arrangements made on people's behalf were made in line with Mental Capacity Act requirements when people could not consent to decisions about their care

The service applied the principles and values of Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These ensure that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes that include control, choice and independence. People's wishes and support needs were reviewed regularly, with the staff member they chose to work with. Staff were committed to helping

people achieve their goals and to ensuring people's disabilities did not prevent them from living a fulfilled and happy life. People were supported to participate in activities they enjoyed and were interested in.

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. People's support focused on opportunities to gain new skills and become more independent. People who wanted to contribute to life at Longridge Court, for example, by growing vegetables or making drinks for others, were empowered to do so. People enjoyed daytrips out, going out for meals and going to the pub. They had formed relationships with members of the community through regular activities they attended. People were supported to maintain relationships with others who were important to them, through visits and use of the internet.

The service was caring and person-centred. People using the service and the staff supporting them, were valued and listened to. The provider and registered manager understood their responsibilities and monitored the service to ensure any improvements needed were carried out. The registered manager worked openly and transparently with outside agencies.