Massenet

This report provides an overview of the CQC inspection of Massenet, a care home for individuals with learning disabilities or autism and complex support needs. The inspection assessed how safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led the service is, with a focus on the experiences of the residents and the quality of care provided. Overall, the findings highlight a service that is committed to promoting independence and inclusion for its residents, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from families.

On safety, the home has robust recruitment practices in place, ensuring staff are suitable and well-trained to keep residents safe. They manage medicines safely and effectively, with trained staff administering them. Risk assessments are in place and regularly reviewed, and personal emergency evacuation plans ensure residents can be safely supported during emergencies.

In terms of how effective the care is, Massenet creates person-centred support plans based on detailed assessments that are updated as needs change. The introduction of "Active Support" has significantly improved residents' lives, encouraging independence and active participation. Staff are well-trained in areas like managing challenging behaviours and utilize various communication methods, including PECS, to support residents.

The care provided is consistently described as caring, with staff forming positive, trusting relationships with residents. Residents are treated with kindness, dignity, and respect, and staff are skilled at supporting them through anxieties and celebrating their progress. Residents are actively involved in decisions about their care, with key workers providing dedicated one-to-one time, and communication methods are adapted to individual needs.

Regarding responsiveness, the service ensures residents are supported to eat and drink sufficiently, with choices offered through various communication aids. They work closely with external agencies to ensure residents access necessary healthcare and attend regular health checks. The home's environment is well-maintained and adapted to meet individual needs, including purpose-built accommodation where beneficial.

Finally, on how well-led the service is, Massenet is managed by a registered manager and deputy who provide positive role models, fostering a person-centred and empowering culture. Robust quality assurance systems are in place to monitor and improve the service. Staff feel well-supported, with regular supervision and opportunities for learning and development, and a commitment to best practice principles drives the service forward.