Tendring Care

We have made a recommendation about embedding safe recruitment practices.

People were supported with their medicines safely and as prescribed. Whilst we received feedback about some late visits, this was due to a small staff team covering one another. Infection prevention and control measures were effective, including the safe management of COVID-19. Systems and processes worked to safeguard people from the risk of abuse. Learning was shared following any incidents.

People received an assessment before joining the service and told us their care plans were regularly reviewed and updated. Staff received supervision, appraisal and training to support them in their roles. Support was given with people's meals, including choice and preference. People told us they were supported to access health and other services as required, such as district nurses. Consent was considered as part of the care provided.

People told us they were treated as individuals and with dignity and respect. Systems and processes supported a consistently caring service. People were able to make decisions about their care, including future planning, and what they would like to continue to do for themselves to maintain their independence. People and their relatives told us Tendring Care were kind, caring and compassionate.

Care planning was personalised and regularly reviewed. The Accessible Information Standard (AIS) had been considered. Measures were established to reduce the risk of social isolation. People told us they did not have cause to complain but knew how to do so if required. The provider worked in partnership with other professionals to support people to have a comfortable and dignified death.

Systems and processes were in place to ensure oversight and governance of the service, including a range of regular audits. People told us they found the office and management approachable. There was a positive and open culture. A Duty of Candour policy was in place. People's feedback on care was sought through reviews and surveys. The provider worked effectively with other professionals such as GPs, social workers and district nurses, as well as with people and their families.

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.