Blythe House

Whilst the service was larger than would usually be expected under Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture guidance, the provider demonstrated they were meeting the principles of the guidance. People received person centred support, experienced positive outcomes and were supported by a culture that promoted dignity, choice and independence."

People received support from a staff team committed to helping them live meaningful lives. Staff followed the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and supported people to stay in control of making their own decisions wherever possible. Feedback from people, staff and professionals was positive about the quality of care provided. People were supported by staff who treated them with kindness and respect and who promoted their independence, choice and rights.

Safe support was provided through effective risk management, safeguarding processes and medicines systems. Staff understood people's individual risks and followed guidance to keep people safe while supporting them to take part in activities and experiences important to them. Risks relating to epilepsy, allergies and other complex needs were managed particularly well.

Staff worked closely with healthcare professionals and relatives to support positive outcomes. People's health needs were monitored and managed well and there was evidence that personalised approaches had contributed to improved wellbeing and reduced hospital admissions for some people.

There was a warm and caring culture throughout the service. People were treated with dignity and respect and were supported to express their views using communication methods suited to their individual needs. Relatives consistently described staff as caring and committed.

Support was personalised and reflected what was important to people. People were supported to access community activities, maintain relationships and pursue their interests. Staff adapted support to meet individual needs and worked to remove barriers to participation. Some improvements were needed to ensure people's goals remained up to date and were consistently reviewed.

The service benefited from positive leadership. The registered manager was visible, approachable and had already identified any areas requiring further development. Systems were in place to monitor quality and leaders demonstrated a reflective approach to improvement.