Halton Supported Housing Network

At our last inspection we rated the service good. At this inspection we found the evidence continued to support the rating of good and there was no evidence or information from our inspection and on-going monitoring that demonstrated serious risks or concerns. This inspection report is written in a shorter format because our overall rating of the service has not changed since our last inspection.

People were protected from abuse and harm because staff understood how to recognise and report safeguarding concerns. Risks to people's safety were assessed and mitigated. This included risks associated with people's care and the environment.

The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) provides a legal framework for making particular decisions on behalf of people who may lack the mental capacity to do so for themselves. People had their capacity assessed appropriately. The service knew who had appointed lasting powers of attorney for either finances or health, and these people were asked to consent on behalf of the person if they lacked the capacity to do this for themselves.

Medication was managed safely. There were safe systems in place for the receipt, storage, recording and administration of medication.

Staff were recruited safely. The suitability of staff was assessed prior to them being offered a position. This included a check on their criminal background, previous work history, skills and qualifications.

Staff received training and support for their individual role to include robust induction, supervision and appraisals.

People told us the care provided was good and staff understood peoples' needs.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives which included details of their wishes in respect of their end of life care. Staff supported people in the least restrictive way possible and the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

There was a robust complaints policy in place to ensure people's concerns and complaints were listened to and acted upon within a given timescale.

The service was well led. People told us the registered manager was open, transparent and supportive.

Notifications and accident and incident forms were submitted as appropriate. There were effective quality assurance systems in place to make sure that any areas for improvement were identified and addressed.

Further information is in the detailed findings below

The five questions we ask about services and what we found