Archived: Royal Mencap Society - 120 High Street North

We found that although most people's needs were being met, there were some restrictions in the way care had been delivered to one person with regards to moving and handling. This location did not have all the appropriate equipment available, and although staff had received training in manual handling, they told us they did not feel competent in the use of the moving and handling equipment that was available to them. This presented a potential risk both to staff and to the person concerned.

We saw positive engagement between staff and people who used the service, and people told us they were always asked for their consent before care and support was delivered. People were encouraged and supported to make their own decisions about everyday life. However where people lacked the capacity to make decisions independently, appropriate processes had been followed to ensure best interest decisions were made on their behalf.

We noted people in this home were at ease in the company of the staff that supported them, and one person told us. "They all work as a good team here. I always get the support I need."

There was a complaints procedure in place, and information relating to complaints was available to people who lived in this home. People we spoke with, knew who they should report any concerns to, and told us that staff were always approachable.

Medication systems ensured people received their prescribed medication on time and in a way that suited their needs.

We observed that people were offered support at a level which encouraged independence and ensured that their individual needs were met. There was a relaxed atmosphere in the home, and staff were friendly and polite in their approach and interacted confidently with people.

We noted that people were encouraged to express their views and were involved in planning their care and making decisions about their support and how they spent their time. One person said. "I can go out to the town with staff, and I go to a day centre once a week". They also talked about the range of activities and entertainment that was available to them.

Within the care files we saw that care documentation had been signed by the individual to confirm their involvement and agreement with their particular care needs. People also took an active role in writing daily diaries about their experiences.