Yourlife (Hertford)

Not everyone using Your Life (Hertford) receives a regulated activity; CQC only inspects the service being received by people provided with 'personal care' which is help with tasks related to personal hygiene and eating. Where they do, we also consider any wider social care provided. At the time of this inspection two people were receiving personal care.

Before care started the provider completed assessments to make sure people`s needs could be met by Your Life (Hertford). Care plans were developed from these assessments for each person's identified needs. Staff received training and support to enable them to carry out their roles effectively. However, further higher- level training was required in areas such as dementia.

People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice. People's dietary needs and requirements were identified in their care plans and staff had a good understanding of how to support people with these.

Staff and the management team knew people well and they sought professional advice appropriately as people's needs changed. Relatives praised the kind and caring nature of the staff team. People and relatives knew about their care and were in control of the support they needed. People received care and support as they wanted and in a manner they wanted. Relatives were confident to raise concerns with the management team.

The management team was committed to providing a high standard of care to the people they supported. Relatives and staff spoke highly of the management team and told us that they were always available and

supportive. However, staff did feel recent management changes had been unsettling. Regular check and audits of the quality and safety of care had been carried out.