Clover Care

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

People's experience of using this service: The registered manager and nominated individual retained close oversight of the service. They ensured standards were maintained and people received a high quality of care from staff who knew them well.

The registered manager was supported by a team of dedicated staff who understood their roles and were well trained. People's relatives spoke highly of the registered manager, as did staff.

Staff had evidently developed strong bonds with people and in most cases had worked with them for a number of years. Staff turnover was low and morale high.

Good community links remained in place. People attended a range of activities, for instance recreational, educational and vocational. The registered manager ensured people had opportunities to engage in their local community and beyond. They and the nominated individual played a proactive role in their community, increasing people's independence and confidence.

Records were accurate, up to date and person-centred.

People's medicines needs were clearly assessed and planned for. Medicines administration was safe and staff had the appropriate skills and knowledge.

People were kept safe and staff were suitably trained in safeguarding principles and practice.

People's capacity was assumed and staff acted in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible. The policies and systems in the service supported this practice. Appropriate training was in place.

The registered manager had been in post for several years and demonstrated an excellent knowledge of the needs people. Relatives and external professionals spoke of their confidence in the registered manager and staff team.

The registered manager had acted on advice from external stakeholders to improve the service.

Staff at all levels continued to deliver the compassionate, individualised approach to care the service promoted. They received formal and informal support from the registered manager.

Plans were in place for how the service would be managed should it grow in size.

The care service was managed in line with the values that underpin Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These values include choice, promotion of independence and inclusion. People with learning disabilities and autism using the service can live as ordinary a life as any citizen.