Step Ahead Home Care Services

Not everyone who used the service received personal care. CQC only inspects where people receive personal care. This is help with tasks related to personal hygiene and eating. Where they do we also consider any wider social care provided.

Overall, medicines were managed safely. Action was taken at the time of the inspection to improve medicines records. We have made a recommendation about medicines support records.

Since our last inspection there had been improvements in the way care plans were written. They now contained detailed information to guide staff in how to support people.

People felt safe and trusted the staff. They were supported by staff who were trained to recognise and report any signs of abuse. There were enough staff to meet people's needs in a consistent and flexible way. Staff were recruited safely. Most individual risks were managed appropriately. Risks regarding the use of oxygen needed to be more robust.

People told us staff were caring, treated them well and respected their privacy and dignity. 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. Staff received appropriate training and support to enable them to carry out their roles effectively. People received access to healthcare professionals when needed. The service raised concerns with health and social care professionals when necessary.

People thought the service was well led. We received compliments about the support and leadership of the service. The registered manager was open and transparent and created a culture which was friendly and welcoming. The service worked well with professionals and continued to support people to access their community.