Autism and Aspergers Care Services Ltd

People were supported to maintain their own interests and friendships. They attended work placements independently and where appropriate, staff supported people to take part in activities of their choice to meet their individual needs and wishes. This included shopping trips, trips to theatre and pub, and trips to places of interest.

People were protected from the risks of harm, abuse or discrimination because staff knew what actions to take if they identified concerns. The home was clean and tidy throughout. There were enough staff working to provide the support people needed, at times of their choice. Recruitment procedures ensured only suitable staff worked at the service.

Staff understood the risks associated with the people they supported. Risk assessments provided further guidance for staff about individual and environmental risks. People looked after some of their own medicines and were supported to receive others when they needed them.

Staff received training that helped them to deliver the care and support people needed. This included specialist training in autism and positive behavioural support to meet people's complex needs. They attended regular supervision meetings and told us they were very well supported by the registered manager. A staff member told us, "(Manager) has a genuine concern for the wellbeing of people and staff."

People's health and well-being needs were met. Where appropriate, staff supported people to attend health appointments, such as the GP or dentist and attended appointments for specialist advice and support when needed. People's nutritional needs were assessed. They were supported to eat a wide range of healthy,

freshly cooked meals, drinks and snacks each day.

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 provider and registered manager had good oversight of the service. They knew staff and people well and provided a supportive environment to live and work. There were a series of audits which helped the provider and registered manager to identify where improvements were needed to continue to develop the service. There was a detailed complaint procedure, and this was displayed so anyone wanting to raise a concern could do so.