Autism and Aspergers Care Services Ltd

People received support from staff who knew them very well as individuals. Staff turnover was low, and a relative and professionals who provided feedback told us this was due to consistency in the staff team. People's care and support needs were assessed and reviewed regularly. This enabled people to receive care that was person-centred and reflected their needs and choices.

People were supported to maintain their own interests. Staff supported people to take part in choosing activities to meet their individual needs and wishes. Two people loved to attend a fitness/dancing class and another person was supported to maintain their religious beliefs. Staff ensured people had regular opportunities to use cafes and restaurants and the organisations 'Trip club' ensured people had regular outings to places of interest to them.

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.

The registered manager had very good oversight of the service. Quality assurance systems were comprehensive and ensured all aspects of the running of the home were examined regularly, records were kept up to date and any actions resulting from audits were addressed swiftly.

Staff understood the risks associated with the people they supported. Risk assessments provided further guidance for staff about individual and environmental risks. People were supported to receive their

medicines safely.

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 the registered manager, "Knows the way we work. We can turn to her if we have a problem."

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 appointments for specialist advice. People's nutritional needs were assessed. They ate 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. There was a detailed complaint procedure, and this was displayed so anyone wanting to raise a concern could do so.