Lowry House

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an assessment of Lowry House, a residential care home supporting up to 12 individuals with learning disabilities. The inspection focused on five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership. The report highlights the home's commitment to person-centred care, ensuring individuals have control, choice, and independence in their lives. Inspectors reviewed various aspects of the service, including care plans, staff practices, environmental safety, and resident feedback, to evaluate the overall quality of care provided.

Regarding safety, the home effectively protects residents from abuse, with staff well-trained in safeguarding. Risk assessments are thorough, considering individual needs and behaviours, and systems are in place for environmental and equipment safety. Safer recruitment processes are followed, and staffing levels are adequate. Medicines are managed and stored safely, and infection control measures are robust. Incidents are investigated to learn lessons and prevent future risks.

In terms of effectiveness, residents receive comprehensive care assessments that are regularly reviewed with their involvement and the input of families. Staff are well-trained and receive thorough inductions, ensuring they have the skills needed to support residents. Residents are supported to maintain a balanced diet, and their health needs are effectively met through collaboration with external healthcare services. The service's design and adaptations cater to individual needs, promoting independence, and decisions are made in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act.

The service is described as caring, with residents appearing happy and content, and staff demonstrating genuine affection and understanding of their needs. Staff are committed to treating residents with dignity and respect, supporting their diverse needs and preferences. Residents are actively involved in daily decision-making, and their views are consistently listened to and respected. Privacy is maintained, and efforts are made to promote independence through life skills development.

The responsiveness of the service has seen significant improvement, with care plans tailored to individual needs and delivered with flexibility, choice, and continuity. Staff actively support residents in developing and maintaining relationships, helping them to avoid social isolation and participate in activities that are meaningful and culturally relevant to them.

Finally, concerning how well-led the service is, the registered manager and management team are viewed positively by residents, families, and staff. The service collaborates effectively with external agencies to achieve positive outcomes. Feedback from residents and families is actively sought and used to enhance service delivery. Staff understand their roles and are dedicated to continuous learning and improving the quality of care provided.