Verity Healthcare - Waltham Forest

There was an absence of a robust system of oversight of staff training to ensure adequate checks on the validity of trainer's qualifications met best practice requirements. The registered manager and a director of the service continued to state their training arrangements complied with guidance. However, they were unable to provide relevant evidence to assure us of this. We have referred our concerns to the relevant authorities.

Most risks were assessed and there were suitable risk management plans, but one risk assessment contained inaccurate information. An amended risk assessment was sent to us following the inspection.

Records related to people's care were held across different phone apps and written records and it was difficult to be certain if staff were always guided about where to find all the information about people's care. The provider recognised this and told us they were working to address this

People told us they felt safe using the service. Staff understood how to protect people from harm and how to raise concerns. The registered manager understood their role and responsibilities in relation to safeguarding adults.

There were enough staff to meet people's needs and they received their care as planned. Safe recruitment practices were followed.

People told us staff followed good infection prevention practice, including the use of personal protective

equipment, (PPE). Staff had received training on infection control. People were supported to maintain a balanced diet.

People's needs were assessed before they started using the service and they had a personalised plan for their care which reflected their individual needs and preferences. Staff told us they were supported in their roles through training and regular supervision.

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.

People told us they had the same small staff team who knew them well and they liked. People were complimentary about the staff who supported them. They told us they were treated with care, consideration dignity and respect.

People received care from staff who knew them well and respected their diverse needs. People told us they were involved in making decisions about the support they received and knew how to complain if they needed to.

Staff were positive about the support they received from the provider and registered manager. They told us they understood their roles and the registered manager was available and approachable.

People were complimentary about the service and told us they were consulted and involved in giving feedback through surveys or telephone calls.

There was a system to monitor other aspects of the quality of the service and identify any learning to make improvements. The provider showed us a new electronic system they were in the process of developing which they said would bring further improvements.