Archived: British Red Cross Preston

By looking at records we found that people had their needs assessed before treatment was provided. We saw that consent was obtained where possible and this was documented. We found that documents relating to people who used the service were stored securely.

People who use the service were protected from the risk of abuse, because the provider had taken reasonable steps to identify the possibility of abuse and prevent abuse from happening.

Systems were in place to enable the quality of the service to be continually monitored and reviewed. We found that where issues were found that improvement actions were implemented.

We found that people had their needs assessed prior to any treatment being offered. We found that people had their diagnosis and treatment explained to them in ways they could understand. We found that peoples' choices and decisions were respected.

The service was provided by a team of qualified volunteers. Volunteers were clear about the parameters of the assessments and treatments they were qualified to carry out and they knew how and when to seek assistance.

We found good systems for infection prevention and control and we saw that ambulances were clean and well maintained.

Staff and volunteers were recruited using thorough procedures. Effective training and support was in place to enable staff to provide a safe and suitable service. One person said, 'The training and support is excellent, I would definitely recommend this as a place to volunteer.'

We found that a good system of quality audits and checks was in place to ensure that a safe and suitable service was provided.