Homeleigh Farm

This report details the findings from an unannounced inspection of Homeleigh Farm, a service providing accommodation and personal support for up to six individuals with learning disabilities and autistic spectrum disorder. The inspection assessed how the service performs across five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring approach, responsiveness, and leadership. The inspection found that the provider has successfully implemented improvements following previous concerns regarding staff training and quality monitoring. The service is staffed by a long-standing registered manager, contributing to its consistent operation. Residents reported being happy and settled, with staff actively supporting their goals for greater independence at a pace that suits them.

Regarding safety, residents are provided with a clean and well-maintained environment where all necessary safety checks are completed routinely. There are sufficient skilled staff, and low staff turnover ensures continuity of care from knowledgeable individuals. Recruitment processes are robust, ensuring only suitable staff are employed, and comprehensive training is provided to equip staff with the necessary skills. Staff understand how to protect residents from harm and respond effectively to emergencies. Where necessary for safety, such as community visits, some restrictive practices are in place, but these are applied with a focus on least restrictive options. Risks are appropriately assessed and regularly reviewed, and medication management is handled safely. The service also adheres to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards and the Mental Capacity Act.

In terms of effectiveness, staff receive thorough induction and ongoing training to meet residents' diverse needs. Care is delivered in line with the Mental Capacity Act, with consent consistently sought. Residents are supported to maintain a healthy and varied diet, with their overall health and wellbeing closely monitored.

The service is caring, with staff consistently respecting residents' privacy and dignity. A positive and enabling atmosphere is fostered, and staff treat residents with respect, supporting them to make their own choices. They also assist residents in maintaining connections with family and friends.

In terms of responsiveness, a comprehensive pre-admission process ensures that residents' needs can be met. Residents are actively involved in their care plans, which are detailed and personalised. Staff facilitate community participation and encourage residents to engage in activities. Residents feel able to raise concerns, and their views, along with those of relatives, are actively sought and acted upon, even for minor issues.

The service is well-led, with a clear management structure that ensures staff feel well-supported and able to approach the registered manager. Staff feel their views are heard in meetings, and robust systems are in place to monitor service quality. Policies and procedures are kept up-to-date, and both residents and their relatives' feedback informs service development. A specific area for improvement noted is the need for upgrading bathrooms and toilets, with a maintenance program in place to address this.