Witham Community Care Limited

We undertook this full assessment of this newly registered service. We did not find any areas of concern during this assessment. Witham Community Care Limited is managed by 2 registered managers.

Trends and patterns from accidents and incidents were identified and any learning shared with staff. People’s movement between services, if periods of respite care were needed for example, were managed well by the service with positive communication between managers across services. People were supported safely by a staff team that knew them well and knew and were confident to raise any safeguarding concerns, should they arise. Staff were recruited safely with ongoing support provided through training and supervision meetings. Risks, including those within people’s home environment, were managed well. Infection prevention control and medicine management were managed safely.

Thorough pre-assessment processes were in place and every effort was made to match staff with similar interests and outlook with people with similar tastes. As staff knew people well they were able to detect subtle changes in their presentation and were able to respond appropriately and secure any additional support as needed. The registered managers and wider staff team all worked well with other health and social care professionals. People’s needs were constantly monitored with significant improvements noted with some people’s care needs actually decreasing because of the support given to help people regain their independence. Staff understood the importance of gaining consent from people before carrying out a task or activity.

Everyone we spoke with told us about a caring, supportive and kind staff team who always treated them with dignity and respect. People’s individual needs were considered and any immediate matters arising were addressed by staff. People’s independence was encouraged without compromising their safety. Staff told us that with the support of the registered managers they were able to achieve a work life balance that suited them.

The registered managers consistently put people at the centre of care, decision making and processes to improve their support needs. Communication between the service, people and their loved ones worked well. Any particular communication needs were managed well. A complaints process was accessible to everyone and the registered managers also kept a record of minor concerns in case any patterns emerged. People had access to additional care support from other professionals as needed and were able to socialise and maintain preferred routines which were respected and accommodated by the service. Opportunities were available to make advanced decisions about future care provision if people wanted to.

The registered managers had a clear vision of future care provision, placing people at the centre of any proposed developments. Staff, people and relatives told us that the registered managers were approachable and always available to support their request and needs. Staff had opportunities to make their views known and all reported that the work environment was safe and welcoming to everyone and that difference was celebrated. The registered managers had established their service at the heart of the local community and had forged meaningful professional relationships with other adult social care providers.