Lower St Helens

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of the care and support offered at Lower St Helens, a home for adults with learning disabilities. The inspection, which took place in December 2017, found that the service continues to provide a good standard of care across all assessed areas, maintaining its previous positive rating. The report highlights the friendly atmosphere and the staff's kind, individualised approach, as well as the involvement of residents and their families in care decisions. Systems are in place to protect individuals, and staff are well-trained to recognise and report concerns.

Regarding safety, the home ensures that robust recruitment processes are in place, with thorough checks to make sure staff are suitable for their roles, and there were sufficient staff on duty to meet residents' needs. Medication management is handled safely, with clear individual plans and appropriate storage and administration processes. Infection control measures are followed, and the premises are maintained to ensure safety, including regular checks of fire safety and evacuation plans.

In terms of how effective the care is, staff demonstrate a good understanding of residents' diverse needs, including cultural, spiritual, and communication requirements, which are assessed before admission. The home promotes residents' independence and choice, and staff receive ongoing training and support, including understanding of the Mental Capacity Act. Residents are supported to eat and drink sufficiently and make healthy choices, and the service collaborates effectively with other health and social care professionals.

On how caring the service is, residents and their families consistently reported positive experiences, with staff building strong, trusting relationships. The atmosphere is described as friendly and supportive, with staff communicating effectively and respectfully, taking time to understand individual needs and preferences. Support plans are personalised, and staff are skilled in responding to different communication styles and emotional needs. Residents are encouraged and supported to stay in touch with loved ones and participate actively in decision-making about their care.

In terms of how responsive the service is, residents and their families feel well-informed and able to communicate openly with staff and management. The service works in partnership with health and social care teams to meet complex needs, with staff receiving specialist training when required. Support plans are person-centred, regularly reviewed, and adapted to changing needs, with family involvement encouraged. Residents are actively supported to pursue their interests and engage in a variety of activities, and there is a clear system for handling complaints.

On how well-led the service is, management promotes an open and inclusive culture, fostering a positive environment where staff feel supported and listened to. The registered manager ensures staff are aware of the service's values and aims. The provider is committed to continuous improvement, implementing new policies, such as those related to the Accessible Information Standard and supporting individuals with autism. Robust quality assurance systems, including regular audits and feedback mechanisms like surveys, are in place to monitor and enhance the service's effectiveness and safety.