Ashmount

This inspection report for Ashmount highlights the care home's strengths in providing support for five individuals with learning disabilities and autism. The service aims to foster a full life with control, choice, and independence for its residents, aligning with best practice guidance. Family members expressed satisfaction with the care provided, noting their relatives appeared relaxed and comfortable with the staff. The report details findings across five key areas, assessing the quality and safety of the service.

Regarding safety, the home has robust arrangements to protect residents from harm, with staff ensuring safety and assessing health and wellbeing risks. Clear guidance is provided to staff on minimising these risks. Safeguarding procedures are in place, and staff have received training on identifying and reporting abuse. Medication management is also a strong point, with safe storage, accurate records, and collaboration with healthcare professionals for prescribed medicines. Pre-employment checks are thorough, and staffing levels are sufficient to meet resident needs, with additional staff available for activities. The environment is clean, tidy, and well-maintained with safety checks regularly performed.

In terms of effective care, residents receive person-centred support tailored to their individual needs and choices. Staff are well-trained and skilled, possessing a good understanding of residents' needs, including communication and behaviour. Regular supervision and appraisals ensure staff competence. Residents are supported to maintain a healthy diet, with guidance and professional input sought for specific nutritional needs. The home collaborates effectively with other agencies to ensure consistent and timely care. The building's design and furnishings are adapted to meet residents' needs, promoting safety and comfort. Residents have access to necessary healthcare services, and staff work proactively to ensure these needs are met, including a recent focus on dental health. The service operates within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring decisions are made in residents' best interests.

The caring aspect of the service is evident in how staff treat residents. They are respectful and compassionate, involving residents in their care and supporting them with dignity. Staff interact well with residents, showing kindness and support. Family members consistently praised the information they received and the support provided to their relatives, highlighting the positive relationships between staff and residents.

The service demonstrates responsiveness to residents' needs. Care plans are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect any changes. Residents are supported to participate in a range of activities that meet their individual needs, with family members noting successful participation in new activities. Although direct communication with some residents is challenging, staff respond to behaviours to identify and address issues. There is a clear complaints procedure, and family members are aware of how to raise concerns.

Finally, the service is well-led, with a transparent and open culture. Management actively monitors service quality through regular audits and checks. Staff feel well supported by the management team. The home has a clear vision and values that underpin the care provided, ensuring residents can live as full a life as possible. The management actively seeks feedback and uses it to make improvements.