Archived: Burnley Branch Office

Plans of care were detailed and used pictures and words to help people who used the service understand them. Two family members told us, "We read his care plan. We are involved in his reviews. We were asked a lot of questions when we first used the service to help Alternative Futures look after him. We helped write the plan". Plans of care were reviewed and updated to ensure staff were aware of any changes.

People were encouraged to choose their own menus and shop for their own food. Where possible people who used the service helped make their own meals. If necessary they were given nutritional advice by staff or professionals such as dieticians to help them take a balanced nutritional diet.

People who used the service and family members told us there were enough staff to help them attend hospital appointments or social activities and staff knew what they were doing. This meant staff were sufficiently well trained to meet their needs.

We spoke with seven members of staff who were at the houses providing support when we undertook our visits. Staff told us, "I love my job. I like to see service users reaching their goals and as a team leader I have helped improve the lives of service users", "This is the best employer I have worked for. They are very supportive and the training is extensive" and "I like working for Alternative Futures. It is very rewarding and we have good management backup and support when it is needed'.