Alina Homecare - Colchester

People received an assessment of their needs and preferences when they joined the service. Staff received an induction, including training, shadowing and supervision. Additional training was specifically tailored to people's care and support needs. People were supported to have a balanced diet. People were proactively supported to access healthcare support and other agencies as required.

Staff were described as caring and there was a person-centred culture. People were treated with respect, and their human rights upheld. People's privacy and dignity was considered at all times. People were able to express their needs and preferences and felt they would be met. People were supported to retain their independence where able and they choose to do so.

Care and support was planned to meet people's preferences, choices and needs. This was regularly reviewed and updated and there was an enhanced awareness of care plans and review processes. Information was communicated and available to people in an accessible way. People and their relatives felt confident the service would respond quickly and openly if they ever had cause to complain. We received positive feedback about support for people reaching the end of their lives.

There was a positive, person-centred culture. Staff felt valued and supported in their roles. A range of checks and audits were carried out, including the use of bespoke systems, which provided good oversight. The registered manager regularly liaised with other branch managers and had provider support, including a dedicated quality team. Legal and regulatory responsibilities were well understood. People and their relatives told us they received regular communication from the service and were able to contact the office as needed. Plans were in place to continuously improve.

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.

At the time of the inspection, the location did not care or support for anyone with a learning disability or an autistic person. However, we assessed the care provision under Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture, as it is registered as a specialist service for this population group.

Right Support: People are supported to have maximum control, choice and independence through the care provided in their own homes. Information is accessible, such as 'Easy read' guidance and information for people if required.

Right Care: Care is person-centred and promotes people's dignity, privacy and human rights. Staff are scheduled to receive specialist training on supporting people with a learning disability, and autistic people.

Right Culture: The ethos, values, attitudes and behaviours of leaders and care staff ensure people using services lead confident, inclusive and empowered lives. There is a positive and inclusive culture at management level, and an awareness of best practice guidance.