Redlands

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) details the findings of an inspection at Redlands, a residential care home supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism, and other complex needs. The inspection followed a previous one where significant improvements were required. This report assesses the service across five key areas, focusing on the experiences of residents and the effectiveness of the care provided. It highlights substantial positive changes and the implementation of robust systems to ensure resident well-being and safety.

Regarding safety, the home has significantly improved its safeguarding procedures, ensuring incidents are reported and acted upon appropriately, which has led to residents feeling much safer. The care and support plans are now detailed and personalized, effectively managing individual risks with a strong focus on least restrictive approaches and positive risk-taking. Following a previous breach, the premises are now clean, well-maintained, and secure, with fire safety systems and health checks consistently completed. Recruitment procedures are also robust, with all necessary pre-employment checks now in place, and residents, relatives, and staff agree that staffing levels are adequate to meet needs. Medication management is safe, with staff trained and following established processes, and infection control measures are effectively in place to protect residents and visitors. Lessons are learned from incidents, with systems in place for monitoring, investigation, and sharing learning with staff.

In terms of how effective the care is, Redlands has moved from requiring improvement to providing consistently good outcomes for residents. Staff now receive comprehensive induction, training, and ongoing support, with a positive behaviour support team actively involved in reviewing approaches and coaching staff. This ensures that care is person-centred and achieves good quality of life for residents.

The caring aspect of the service is highlighted by staff demonstrating a deep understanding of residents' needs and communicating with them respectfully and kindly, using their preferred methods. Residents feel respected, and their preferences are actively sought and incorporated into daily life, including meal choices and activities. Staff show genuine kindness and compassion in their interactions.

In terms of responsiveness, the service has made significant improvements to its environment, involving residents and their families in the refurbishment and redecoration. Residents are supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives, with staff enabling them to make meaningful choices in a person-centred way. The home actively seeks and acts upon feedback from residents, relatives, and staff to continuously improve the service, and professionals confirm effective partnership working which achieves positive outcomes.

Finally, the service is well-led, with a management team possessing the necessary skills and experience. There is a clear vision for the service focused on person-centred care and positive outcomes, and management is visible and approachable. Robust systems are in place to monitor the service and drive improvements, with staff feeling involved and listened to. The provider works collaboratively with health and social care professionals to achieve positive outcomes for residents.