Living Ambitions Limited - 330 Guildford Road

The CQC inspection report for 330 Guildford Road, carried out on 24 August 2018, provides an overview of the care and support offered to six individuals with learning disabilities. The inspection focused on assessing the service across five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership. This report details the findings of an unannounced visit, building on previous inspections and the provider's subsequent action plans. The overall aim was to evaluate whether the service is meeting regulatory requirements and providing high-quality care that promotes independence and inclusion for its residents, allowing them to live as ordinary a life as possible.

Regarding safety, the home has made significant improvements, with residents and their relatives expressing that individuals feel safe and well-looked after. Risks are thoroughly assessed and managed, with staff diligently following care plans. The environment is maintained to a high standard, with regular safety checks and adherence to infection control procedures. There are sufficient staff numbers to meet residents' needs, and robust recruitment processes are in place to ensure suitability.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs are appropriately assessed and planned for. Staff are well-trained, supported through regular supervision, and possess the necessary skills to meet individual requirements. The service operates in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, ensuring residents' rights to make decisions are respected and that any decisions made on their behalf are in their best interests and as least restrictive as possible. Residents have access to necessary healthcare services, and their nutritional needs are met.

When it comes to how caring the service is, staff are consistently described as polite, kind, and compassionate, treating residents with dignity and respecting their privacy. Residents and their families are actively involved in care planning, with their choices and preferences being central to the support provided. There is a strong focus on encouraging independence, and staff communicate with residents in ways they understand.

In terms of being responsive, the home ensures that residents have clear support plans detailing how their individual needs, goals, and preferences will be met. Staff actively support residents in maintaining relationships with friends and family, and accessible information is provided. Residents are encouraged to participate in enjoyable activities, both within the home and in the community, promoting active lives. Funeral wishes are recorded, and while no one was receiving end-of-life care at the time of the visit, plans were in place for appropriate support. A clear complaints procedure is available, and relatives are aware of how to raise concerns.

Looking at how well-led the service is, there is a positive and open culture. The management team is described as friendly and approachable, and staff feel well-supported and able to discuss any issues. Regular quality checks are conducted, and improvements are made based on findings. The service collaborates effectively with other organisations to enhance its provisions. The registered manager ensures all regulatory requirements are met, including timely notifications and display of inspection ratings.