Ashlea House

Ashlea House is a small residential care home providing accommodation and personal care for up to four adults with learning disabilities. At the time of our review, four people were living at the service. The home aims to support residents in living fulfilling lives focused on choice, independence, and meaningful daily activities, including voluntary or paid work. Following the arrival of a newly registered manager, leadership and staff have successfully fostered a warm, welcoming, and homely atmosphere while maintaining high standards of individualized care across all areas of support.

Residents are protected from avoidable harm through robust safeguarding practices, thorough staff background checks, and clear individual risk assessments. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report any concerns. While the environment is generally safe, specific safety measures are tailored to individual needs, such as staff frequently checking on a resident while they bathe. Medicines are managed safely and securely, with daily counts and monthly audits, and residents are encouraged to participate in their own medication routines where appropriate.

Support is grounded in thorough assessments and personalized transition plans that allow people to move in at their own pace. Staff receive a comprehensive induction, specialist training—such as for epilepsy and positive behavioral support—and regular supervision. Residents are actively involved in meal planning, cooking, and maintaining a balanced diet, with staff regularly monitoring their weight and health needs. The home features accessible communal spaces and personalized bedrooms, and necessary safety adaptations like handrails and shower aids have been installed.

Staff consistently demonstrate warmth, compassion, and genuine kindness in their daily interactions with residents. The team communicates well and feels strongly supported by management. Relatives speak highly of the care provided, noting that staff are attentive to healthcare needs, such as sight, hearing, and dental care, and ensure that residents feel valued and respected as individuals in a comfortable environment.

Residents enjoy active and busy lifestyles and are fully consulted about all aspects of their daily routines, including their preferences for meals and activities. Care plans are person-centered and designed to maximize each person's independence, with some residents even expressing a desire to move to less dependent living arrangements in the future. Clear guidance is in place for residents who understand the boundaries set to keep them safe, and everyone knows how to raise a complaint if they are unhappy.

The home benefits from strong oversight and monitoring by both the registered provider and the registered manager. Regular feedback is actively sought from residents, relatives, staff, and external professionals to continually drive improvements. Although leadership previously faced challenges due to a prolonged lack of a registered manager, the current leadership team has successfully addressed this, ensuring stable and enthusiastic direction that maintains high standards across the service.