XL Care Services Limited

People told us they had an initial assessment; however, this had not always been recorded formally. Information gathered was used to develop risk assessments and care plans. People described ways they had been involved in the development of care plans.

People, their relatives and friends told us the care they received was safe. There were enough staff available to meet people's needs. People told us staff always attended their scheduled visits and would let them know if they were going to be delayed. The provider ensured safe recruitment of staff. People were supported to take their medicines safely and this was consistently well recorded. People told us staff took appropriate infection protection control measures. We have made a recommendation that staff training about safeguarding is reviewed and practice updated accordingly.

New staff received an induction programme and all staff had completed a range of training which gave them the skills and knowledge to care for people in their own homes. Staff were supported with training and supervision to ensure safe care. Staff felt well supported by the registered manager.

People consistently told us staff obtained their consent and views about the service they received. One person told us, "I'm never rushed and I can make my own decisions about what I want doing and how." Staff demonstrated they knew people well and understood the way people wanted to be cared for.

People told us staff were kind, caring and consistently gave them choices. People's privacy, dignity and independence were promoted. Staff understood how to provide personalised care and ensure people's nutritional needs wet met.

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.

For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk