Merit Healthcare Ltd

Safe – this means we looked for evidence that people were protected from abuse and avoidable harm. At our last inspection, we rated this key question good. At this inspection, the rating has remained good. This meant people were safe and protected from avoidable harm.

People were supported by enough staff to meet their needs. Systems were in place to ensure staff had the time to travel between calls. Staff were positive they had received enough training to keep people safe and meet their needs. Systems were in place to monitor the safety and quality of care people received.

Staff demonstrated understanding of how to keep people safe from harm or potential abuse. People felt they were kept safe. Concerns raised were managed in a timely manner to keep people safe. Staff understood the importance of seeking consent from people prior to supporting them with any tasks. Records clearly demonstrated this was considered at all visits.

Well-led – this means we looked for evidence that service leadership, management and governance assured high-quality, person-centred care; supported learning and innovation; and promoted an open, fair culture.

At our last inspection, we rated this key question requires improvement. At this inspection, the rating has changed to good. This meant the service was consistently managed and well-led. Leaders and the culture they created promoted high-quality, person-centred care.

Systems have been improved since the last inspection by the management to provide oversight. Some more formal quality assurance systems were emerging. These were proving to be effective at identifying concerns and rectifying them.

People and relatives were positive about the culture and management of the service. Staff felt supported and received regular supervision. When concerns were identified with a staff member’s practice, appropriate actions were taken to support improvement.

Equality and diversity were understood by the management. Other health and social care professionals felt they were involved appropriately. Systems were in place to coordinate with the community, so people received the support they required.