Eden Support Ltd

We assessed the service against ‘Right support, right care, right culture’ guidance to make judgements about whether the provider guaranteed autistic people and people with a learning disability respect, equality, dignity, choices, independence and good access to local communities that most people take for granted. The provider ensured people were involved in the local communities beyond the location. The model of care was such that people had opportunities to learn new skills and become more independent.

People were supported by sufficient numbers of staff who had the skills and knowledge to meet their needs. Staff received an induction and ongoing training, with regular updates to help them provide effective care and support. People told us staff responded promptly when support was needed and we observed care being delivered in a timely and responsive way.

Risks were assessed and people were involved in the process. There were effective systems in place to safeguard people from abuse. Safeguarding systems were in place to protect people from the risk of abuse. Staff understood their responsibilities and were knowledgeable about different types of abuse and how and who they would report concerns to. Staff understood the process of recording accidents and incidents, including escalating concerns to leaders. Incident reports were regularly analysed to identify any themes or trends to improve people’s safety. The provider had completed mental capacity assessments for people using the service. However, assessments had been undertaken based on the manager's knowledge of individuals, with limited evidence of consultation with the person or involvement of relevant relatives and professionals where appropriate. This indicated that these processes were not always being implemented in line with best practice guidance. The manager acknowledged the feedback provided during the assessment, was receptive to discussion, and demonstrated a commitment to improving their approach to mental capacity assessments.

Medicines were administered safely and recorded on medicine administration records. There were systems in place to ensure the environment was safe, including regular checks of fire safety systems and equipment. Staff understood and could describe how they supported people safely. Staff told us how they provided support to people to minimise risks relating to falls, nutrition and hydration.

The service demonstrated a person-centred approach to care, with staff understanding people's individual needs, preferences and life experiences. People were supported in a way that promoted their independence, dignity and wellbeing, and feedback indicated positive outcomes. Staff monitored people's health and wellbeing and sought support from healthcare professionals when concerns were identified.

Care plans were person centred and provided staff with detailed information on how to support people based on their assessed needs, choices and preferences.

Systems were in place to support the safety and effectiveness of the service, including live alerts to monitor care delivery, supporting oversight and ensuring people received their planned care calls at the expected times including the administration of medication. Audits were completed regularly by leaders, however, these required further strengthening to ensure they consistently identified areas for improvement, such as the mental capacity assessments.