Unicare Devon

Not everyone using the service received a regulated activity; CQC only inspects the service received by people provided with 'personal care'; help with tasks related to personal hygiene and eating. Where they do, we also take into account any wider social care provided.

Care plans and risk assessments had been improved. There was a new secure electronic communication system for staff which meant care staff were kept up to date and informed promptly. Care staff told us this was very successful and had made a big difference to the service. The electronic care plans provided detailed information about all aspects of each person's needs. Any changes to the person's needs were reviewed promptly and care plans were kept updated.

Safe recruitment procedures were followed. New staff received training at the start of their employment on all topics relevant to their jobs. There was regular updated training and opportunities to gain relevant qualifications. People received their medicines safely. Staff had the equipment and training to protect people from infection.

There were sufficient staff employed to meet people's needs. The service was in the process of streamlining rotas to give care workers more consistent visits. This was resulting in people having smaller teams of care workers who they knew and trusted. Care workers were positive about their jobs and told us they were willing to do extra hours to cover for vacant shifts when colleagues were off sick or on leave. People told us care workers usually arrived on time and stayed for the correct length of time.

People told us the care workers were always kind and treated them with respect. Comments included, "All the staff are caring - absolutely!" and "The carers are fantastic". Care workers were observant and noticed when additional assistance may be needed with tasks.

People who used the service and care workers told us the service was well-led. Comments included, "The

management team are brilliant! If I ever need them, they are always happy to talk" and "It's a good organisation to work for". The providers had improved their monitoring systems to enable them to quickly identify any areas where improvements were needed and ensure actions were taken to address these.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.