Helping Hands Chichester

Seven days prior to the inspection, staff had started to communicate information between themselves in real-time through an electronic application on their personal mobile phones. The provider had not ensured this process was secure. The registered manager took immediate action to stop this practice at the time of the inspection.

People said they felt safe and were protected from harm. A person said, "I felt safe with them, they put me at ease because they were very friendly. They did wear badges, so I knew who they were, and they were on time." Staff had a good understanding of what safeguarding meant and the procedures for reporting any issues of harm to people. All the staff we spoke with were confident any concerns they raised would be followed up appropriately by the registered manager.

There were enough staff to care for people safely, with staff and people using the service telling us current staffing arrangements were sufficient. Staff said their rotas were well managed, with sufficient travel time between each care visit. A relative said, "They are very good, they send in people every day and are very helpful and organised." The staff recruitment procedures ensured appropriate pre-employment checks were completed to ensure only suitable staff worked at the service.

Medicines were managed safely by trained staff. Effective practices were in place to protect people from infection. Staff received supervision and appraisals to support them in their role and identify any learning needs and opportunities for professional development.

Senior staff carried out spot checks to monitor the quality of the service provided and to seek the views of the people who were supported. People had a choice of meals and told us they had plenty to eat and drink.

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.

People received appropriate healthcare support as and when needed and staff knew what to do to request assistance. Complaints were investigated and managed appropriately in line with the provider's policy.

The service worked in partnership with other agencies to ensure quality of care across all levels. People, relatives and staff were encouraged to provide feedback about the service. There was a culture of openness and transparency. Staff were positive about the management and leadership of the service.