Turning Point - Kent DCA

The service has been developed and designed in line with the principles and values that underpin Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. This ensures that people who use the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes. The principles reflect the need for people with learning disabilities and/or autism to live meaningful lives that include control, choice, and independence. People using the service receive planned and co-ordinated person-centred support that is appropriate and inclusive for them.

People were encouraged to be a part of the local community; attending clubs, leisure centres, local shops, pubs and other local services. People were supported to make their own decisions and be as independent as possible.

The outcomes for people using the service reflected the principles and values of Registering the Right Support by promoting choice and control, independence and inclusion. People's support focused on them having as many opportunities as possible for them to gain new skills and become more independent.

People were supported by a core staff team who had the right skills, knowledge and competencies. Regular agency staff were used to cover staffing hours for consistency. The registered manager had taken steps to improve staff retention and recruitment since the last inspection. Staff were recruited safely. Comprehensive risk assessments were in place and people were encouraged to take positive risks to support their wellbeing. Peoples medicines were managed safely, and lessons were learnt when things went wrong.

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. Some documentation about restrictive practice did not include specific information about equipment used to keep people safe. The registered manager took action during the inspection to improve this. Staff were well supported and supervised and had a good understanding and knowledge of people and their needs. Peoples health was managed and supported well, and they made their own decisions about

their food and drink.

Staff were caring and respectful of people and people appeared relaxed and happy with the staff that supported them. Peoples diversities were respected, and equality promoted. The registered manager organised forums and meetings where staff could discuss diversity and human rights.

People had detailed care and support plans. People, relatives and staff were involved in the assessment and delivery of care. People did a range of activities to suit their own personal preferences. End of life information was available in people's care plans and this had been discussed where appropriate. A complaints procedure and policy were available, and complaints were responded to, to find a solution.

The service was well led, and the registered manager had a clear vison for the service which staff shared. Staff, people and other stakeholders were encouraged to provide feedback, so the service could improve. Quality assurance audits were conducted so service delivery could continue to improve. Staff understood their roles and responsibilities and the management team continually assessed the outcomes for people.

The last rating for this service was Good (published 26 January 2017).