Social Care Solutions Ltd (Bedfordshire)

Not everyone using the service received a regulated activity; CQC only inspects the service being received by people provided with 'personal care'; help with tasks related to personal hygiene and eating. Where they do, we also take into account any wider social care provided. At the time of this inspection the service was supporting 47 people, of these, 28 people were receiving personal care.

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 understood the importance of providing respectful care which was person centred and tailored to individual's needs.

Staff had received training and applied their skills and understanding to provide safe care. Additional specialist training was provided to staff to enhance their knowledge and raise awareness of people's medical conditions.

Right Care: People had risk assessments and care plans in place. However, some of these required updating to ensure the information was accurate and reflective of people's current needs.

Staffing levels were improving, and recruitment continued to take place. Where required agency staff complimented the staff team to maintain safe staffing levels. The provider block booked agency staff to support continuity of care.

Right Culture: The quality assurance system had been reviewed and new processes implemented. This required time to embed to ensure it was robust in identifying and addressing shortfalls of the service.

We received mixed feedback from relatives about the registered managers. Many of the relatives we spoke with were not aware of the registered managers names but recognised the scheme managers whom they communicated with where required.

Staff told us a newly recruited registered manager was approachable. Comments we received from staff included, "[Registered manager] is amazing. They make time for people and staff always." And, "The new registered manager is definitely approachable. I now feel confident and able to raise concerns and know I will be listened to."

Staff were passionate and enthusiastic in their role. Comments we received from staff included, "Knowing I have made a difference to a person makes me feel accomplished." And, "It is rewarding to support somebody achieve things in their everyday life. Seeing a person smile makes my day."

The provider recognised when people's needs changed and made timely referrals to external professionals to ensure appropriate care and support was in place.