Sagecare (Bournemouth)

Infection control procedures were robust and regular checks were made to ensure all staff were working in safe ways. Staff had access to and wore correct personal protective equipment (PPE). Risks associated with COVID-19 for people and staff had been assessed and the service kept up to date with changing guidance. Staff testing was in line with guidance and everyone knew their responsibilities to protect people. Medicines were managed safely by a live electronic system which alerted the service office if medicines were delayed, this was monitored by the office and on call staff.

There were enough staff and recruitment was ongoing. Robust checks were made to ensure staff had the necessary skills and experience. Staff felt training was good and they were supported. Staff understood how to safeguard people from harm and abuse and were confident any concerns would be followed up by the registered manager and provider.

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. Consent was sought and where people needed support to make decisions the necessary legal process was followed.

People and their relatives told us staff were kind and caring. People were supported to be independent and be involved in their care. Staff were proud to work for Sagecare (Bournemouth) and told us the range of ways they helped people in their own homes.

Quality assurance systems were in place to monitor safety and to drive improvements. Systems were robust and checked all aspects of the service. The registered manager understood their responsibilities and people, their relatives and staff had confidence in them. The registered manager was supported well by the regional manager and the provider, additional checks at their level ensured the service was operating safely. The service worked well with external professionals and continued to build on those links within the community.

For more details, please see the full report which is on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk