4 Cottage Walk

4 Cottage Walk, an Achieve Together service, has undergone an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This report summarises the findings, offering insights into the home's performance across key areas. The inspection focused on how well the service supports individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people, ensuring they receive respectful, dignified, and independent lives with good access to their communities. The report is based on a thorough review of the service's operations, including staff interactions, care plans, and the overall environment, aiming to provide families with a clear picture of the care provided.

In terms of safety, the home ensures individuals are protected from avoidable harm, with staff well-trained in recognising and reporting abuse. People are involved in managing their own risks and making decisions about their safety, with care plans readily accessible and securely stored. The environment is well-maintained, and sensory needs are assessed and met. Staffing levels are adequate, adapting to residents' needs, and recruitment processes are robust. Medication is managed safely, adhering to principles to avoid over-medication, and staff are well-trained in its administration. Infection control measures are effective, keeping the premises clean and hygienic, and visitors are managed safely. Incidents are managed well, with lessons learned and shared, and staff can report concerns immediately through a dedicated app.

Regarding effectiveness, care and support plans are personalised, reflecting individual needs, likes, and dislikes, with clear guidance for staff. Daily diaries provide comprehensive updates. Staff receive relevant training, including specific modules for individuals' needs, and there is a structured programme for ongoing professional development, supported by regular supervision. Residents are supported to maintain a balanced diet, involved in meal planning where possible, with flexible mealtimes. The environment is clean, well-equipped, and homely, with sensory facilities available, and residents are encouraged to personalise their rooms. Health action plans are in place, and residents are supported to attend health checks and access primary care services, with multidisciplinary professionals involved in care plans. Staff understand and document decision-making capacity, with assessments and best interest decisions recorded when individuals may lack capacity.

In its caring approach, the service provides kind and compassionate care, with staff using positive and respectful language. They are patient, attentive to emotional needs, and mindful of sensory sensitivities, making residents feel valued. Staff take time to understand individual communication styles and build rapport, ensuring non-verbal individuals are included in decisions. Residents are empowered to make choices, with information provided to support them, and their wishes are respected, including cultural and religious preferences. Family members are involved in care planning where appropriate, and residents participate in meetings to discuss living arrangements and suggest ideas. Residents have opportunities to develop independence, with support provided to achieve personal goals and aspirations, including moving to more independent living arrangements.

The service is responsive, ensuring individuals have maximum choice and control over their lives, supported in the least restrictive way possible. Staff focus on people's strengths, helping them identify and work towards their goals. The home provides a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment that meets sensory and physical needs. Residents are supported to participate in activities and pursue interests in their local area, and access specialist health and social care support in the community. Medication support promotes independence. Staff understand and respond to individual needs, protecting residents from abuse and communicating effectively to ensure understanding. Activities are tailored to individual interests, and risks are assessed and mitigated. The manager and staff foster an inclusive and empowered environment, with staff feeling supported and understanding residents' aspirations. Quality of support is evaluated, involving residents, families, and professionals, with a person-centred approach and a clear learning culture.

In terms of being well-led, the manager and staff team actively promote inclusive and empowered lives for residents. The manager is in the process of registration and works with a regional manager to oversee multiple services, ensuring oversight and support for the team. Staff feel well-supported by management and the provider. The team has a strong understanding of residents' needs and aspirations, delivering person-centred care. Quality of support is regularly evaluated, involving all relevant parties. The needs and safety of residents are central to the service's culture, with a strong emphasis on putting people first. There is a clear culture of learning and continuous improvement evident within the team.