Visiting Angels Care

The provider supported a small number of people with a learning disability or autistic people. We 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. We found the service was working in line with the guidance.

At this assessment, people spoke highly of staff, who were seen as kind, respectful and well-trained, with good knowledge of safeguarding and meeting people’s individualised needs. Positive outcomes for people were evident, and staff demonstrated skills in supporting people’s complex care needs. The service was responsive to people’s needs, worked well with people to encourage independence, and was effective in supporting people to access different health-care services as needed.

However, improvements were required to ensure consistency and effectiveness in care planning, risk management and medicines management. Some records varied in quality, with some lacking key information, including end-of-life preferences and guidance for ‘as required’ medicines.

Feedback about leadership and governance was mixed. While some people felt the service was well managed, others highlighted concerns around communication and continuity of care. Staff also raised concerns about rota management and aspects of the workplace culture. Governance systems had not always identified or addressed gaps in care documentation, which meant there was a risk staff did not always have access to accurate and up-to-date information. The service was receptive to feedback and had begun taking steps to address identified areas for improvement.