Housing and Support Solutions - Lincoln

At the last inspection on the service was rated, 'Good'.

At the present inspection the service remained, 'Good'. Suitable quality checks were being completed and had ensured that there were enough staff on duty. In addition, people told us that they received person- centred care.

There were systems, processes and practices to safeguard people from situations in which they may experience abuse including financial mistreatment. Risks to people's safety had been assessed, monitored and managed so they were supported to stay safe while their freedom was respected. Medicines were managed safely. Background checks had been completed before new staff had been appointed.

Furthermore, there were arrangements to prevent and control infection and lessons had been learned when things had gone wrong.

Staff had been supported to deliver care in line with current best practice guidance. People were helped to eat and drink enough to maintain a balanced diet. In addition, suitable steps had been taken to ensure that people received coordinated and person-centred care when they used or moved between different services. People had access to healthcare services so that they received on-going healthcare support.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives. Staff supported them in the least restrictive ways possible. The policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People were treated with kindness, respect and compassion and they were given emotional support when needed. They had also been supported to express their views and be actively involved in making decisions about their care as far as possible. People had access to lay advocates if necessary. In addition, confidential information was kept private.

Information was provided to people in an accessible manner. In addition, people had been supported to pursue their hobbies and interests. The registered manager recognised the importance of promoting equality and diversity. People's concerns and complaints were listened and responded to in order to improve the quality of care. Arrangements had been made to support people at the end of their life.

There was a registered manager who promoted a positive culture in the service that was focused upon

achieving good outcomes for people. They had also taken steps to enable the service to meet regulatory requirements. Staff had been helped to understand their responsibilities to develop good team work and to speak out if they had any concerns. People, their relatives and members of staff had been consulted about making improvements in the service. The provider had put in place arrangements that were designed to enable the service to learn, innovate and ensure its sustainability. There were arrangements for working in partnership with other agencies to support the development of joined-up care.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found