Avalon Northallerton Services

This is a specialist service registered to support autistic people or people with a learning disability. We have assessed the service against ‘Right support, right care, right culture’ guidance to make judgements about whether the provider guaranteed people with a learning disability and autistic people respect, equality, dignity, choices, independence and good access to local communities that most people take for granted.

Staff supported people safely and ensured people’s homes were safe and clean. Staff had a good understanding of safeguarding and knew how to recognise any concerns and respond to these appropriately. Risks to people were appropriately assessed and support plans implemented. Food preparation and fluid records were not always fully detailed. This was resolved following our feedback. Staff were recruited safely and received appropriate training.

Support plans were up to date. Staff remained up to date with best practice guidance and provided support accordingly. People were supported to access other services such as day care services and employment. Staff were vigilant around people’s health needs and any small changes in people’s presentation. Records around people’s goals and aims were not always comprehensive. The provider had identified this documentation required review. Documentation was not robust or reviewed regularly around one potentially restrictive practice. The provider reviewed this immediately following our feedback.

Staff were kind and respectful. Staff knew people well and encouraged people to be as independent as possible. Staff wellbeing was a priority for the provider. Staff felt valued and involved. The provider was committed to the development of staff.

Information was provided in a variety of ways and the provider considered assistive technology. Staff were given clear guidance as to how to effectively communicate with individuals they supported. The provider considered relevant legal requirements and people’s human rights. These topics, along with equality, diversity and inclusion, were discussed at board and senior level, and relayed to staff throughout the organisation.

The provider had a clear shared vision, strategy and culture. Staff and leaders actively monitored and anticipated current and future risks to delivering the strategy. The staff team was happy and expressed pride about working for the provider. There was an excellent culture amongst staff, with staff consistently referring to the importance of the provision of person-centred care. The management team was competent and passionate. The provider had strong governance systems and processes in place. The provider was continuously seeking to improve the service and ensure future sustainability.