Aspect House

Incidents were recorded and used to identify patterns, with information shared with staff, who understood reporting, safeguarding, and whistleblowing responsibilities. Handover processes supported continuity of care, and legal requirements under the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) were met. Risks were regularly reviewed to support safe, positive risk-taking, with safe recruitment, sufficient staffing, and ongoing training in place. Infection control and environmental checks were maintained; however, audits had not identified unsafe water temperatures, which increased the risk of scalding. Medicines were handled by trained staff with audit systems in place; however, a stock discrepancy was identified on inspection, which meant the provider could not be completely assured people were receiving their medication as prescribed.

People’s needs were assessed prior to admission, and care plans were regularly reviewed to reflect current needs. Staff worked closely with professionals and people were supported to achieve personalised outcomes, with progress monitored and positive health and independence outcomes evidenced. People and relatives were involved in decision-making. Choice, independence, and consent were consistently respected in daily care. Feedback from residents and staff was strongly encouraged and used to drive improvements.

The service was led by a supportive and approachable management team who promoted an open, positive culture, with staff and relatives expressing high confidence in leadership. Staff were supported with their development and felt able to raise concerns. Systems were in place to monitor safety.

We assessed the service against ‘Right support, right care, right culture’ guidance to make judgements about whether the provider guaranteed autistic people and people with a learning disability respect, equality, dignity, choices, independence and good access to local communities that most people take for granted.