Kingarth

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspects Kingarth, a specialist care home providing support for individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health needs. The inspection reviewed the service's performance across five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring approach, responsiveness, and leadership. The overall findings highlight a service that is exceptionally well-regarded by residents and staff alike, with a strong focus on individualised care and fostering a supportive environment.

On safety, the home excels, with a proactive approach to risk assessment and management that prioritises resident independence and minimises restrictions. Staff are highly skilled in identifying and addressing risks, and the service has been recognised nationally for its positive risk-taking strategies, leading to residents feeling safe and empowered. Safeguarding practices are robust and person-centred, with an emphasis on transparency and learning from any incidents. The service also demonstrates excellent practices in medicine management, infection control, and staffing, ensuring a secure environment for everyone.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents receive good quality training and support from staff who understand best practices. Assessments of needs are thorough, and care plans are personalised, reflecting residents' aspirations and health needs, with regular involvement from residents and their families. The service adheres to the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring that residents' decisions are respected and supported, with clear documentation and accessible advocacy. Residents are also well-supported with their nutrition and healthcare needs, ensuring they lead healthier lives.

The service's caring approach is outstanding, with staff treating residents with exceptional respect, dignity, and compassion. The 'KingCare' approach, developed in collaboration with residents, ensures that care is considerate, compassionate, and empowering. Residents feel truly valued as individuals and are actively involved in decisions about their care. Equality, diversity, and inclusion are woven into every aspect of service delivery, creating an environment where residents feel accepted and supported to be themselves.

Regarding how responsive the service is, Kingarth excels in meeting individual needs. The service is highly personalised, focusing on residents' strengths and aspirations to promote a fulfilling life. Staff are skilled in communication and actively seek resident feedback to ensure care plans are consistently meeting their needs and goals. The home effectively manages complaints and concerns, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring residents' voices are heard and acted upon.

Finally, on how well-led the service is, Kingarth demonstrates outstanding leadership. There is a clear vision and a strong value base that permeates the entire organisation, with a focus on resident well-being and continuous improvement. Staff are highly motivated, well-supported, and receive ongoing training and development. The service actively seeks and responds to feedback from residents, staff, and external stakeholders, fostering a culture of openness and transparency that drives high-quality care.