Redlands Lane

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of Redlands Lane, a residential care home supporting two individuals with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, or autism. The inspection assessed the service across five key areas: safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership. The aim is to give families a clear understanding of the service's performance and the daily experience of its residents.

Regarding safety, the home ensures residents are protected from harm with robust safeguarding policies and staff who understand their roles in reporting concerns. Risks are well-assessed and managed, allowing residents to take positive risks to enhance their independence. Staffing levels are sufficient, and recruitment processes are thorough. Medication is managed safely with trained staff, and infection control measures are effectively implemented. When incidents occur, there are systems to learn from them and prevent recurrence.

In terms of effectiveness, care is planned and delivered according to people's individual needs and preferences, ensuring positive outcomes and a good quality of life. Staff receive comprehensive training, including specialized areas, and regular supervision to support their development. Residents are supported to maintain a healthy diet, with choices and assistance provided. The service collaborates effectively with external healthcare professionals to ensure timely and consistent care. The home's design is adapted to meet resident needs, and assistive technology is used to promote independence. While staff demonstrate strong knowledge of mental capacity principles, there's a recommendation to improve the recording of best interest decision meetings.

On the caring aspect, residents are treated with dignity, respect, and kindness by staff who demonstrate genuine affection and empathy. Interactions are warm and positive, with staff actively promoting residents' independence and offering choices. Staff show a deep understanding of individual needs and are dedicated to supporting the wellbeing and happiness of those they care for.

Regarding responsiveness, the service is designed to allow residents to live as full a life as possible, with an emphasis on control and independence. Staff understand individual communication needs and provide person-centred support. Residents are encouraged to participate in a range of activities that align with their choices and preferences, contributing to a good quality of life.

Finally, concerning leadership, relatives and staff hold positive views of the management team, describing the home as well-led. The provider and registered manager actively conduct audits to ensure service effectiveness. There is a strong embedded culture that promotes equality, diversity, dignity, and respect, and staff are supported to help residents integrate into their local community and live as independently as possible.