Springfield Healthcare (Sheffield)

At the time of our visit, we found that the service was supporting some people with a learning disability. However, the provider was not currently registered to provide support to this client group. We therefore 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. The provider has applied for this service user band to be added to their service.

This is the first assessment for this newly registered service. The provider was successful in obtaining the contract for 2 areas of Sheffield and took over support in July 2024 transferring both people and staff from other providers. This presented the provider with some challenges which the provider has worked hard to resolve. Feedback from people, families and staff acknowledge improvements made to address the challenges faced.

This assessment was prompted in part due receipt of information relating to an incident which had occurred at the service. The information shared with CQC indicated potential concerns about the standard of care. This assessment examined those risks. We found that the provider had been responsive to issues raised and lessons learned.

We carried out a comprehensive assessment of the service covering all 5 key questions. We rated the provider good in safe, responsive, caring and well led and requires improvement in effective with an overall rating of good.

Care records for some people needed more detail. Whilst we found no harm to people, further information was needed to ensure risks were fully mitigated and to ensure staff had all information needed to be able to provide care and support that was safe, consistent and effective.

There were enough staff with the right skills, qualifications and experience. However, we received some mixed feedback regarding consistency of staff and timing of calls. Recruitment systems were in place to ensure the safe recruitment of staff. Staff received appropriate training, and the management team supported staff through regular supervisions and appraisals.

Staff ensured people’s consent was always received and choices given. However, we found improvements were required to some peoples care records to ensure information around capacity for individuals was recorded in sufficient detail to guide staff effectively.

Governance systems were in place and there were a range of audits, analysis and checks within the service, which supported safety and quality.

Leaders and staff worked with other professionals and agencies involved in people’s care to ensure the best outcomes for people.

The provider had processes to safeguard people from the risk of abuse. Staff were knowledgeable about safeguarding and knew how to act on concerns. Lessons were learnt from incidents and shared with staff.

The provider promoted people’s independence and staff understood the importance of supporting people to maintain their independence and making choices about their care.

Leaders were visible, knowledgeable and supportive, helping staff develop in their roles. Staff felt supported and overall told us they felt happy in their roles.