Saresta and Serenade

Saresta and Serenade provides care for up to 10 individuals with complex needs, including learning disabilities and autistic spectrum disorder, within two adjacent bungalows. This report summarizes findings from a CQC inspection on February 7, 2019. The service has been developed to promote independence and inclusion, ensuring residents can live ordinary lives. This inspection, which followed a previous ‘Good’ rating, found that the service continues to meet high standards across all key areas, with no serious risks or concerns identified. The report highlights ongoing strengths in how the home operates and supports its residents.

On safety, the home maintains robust systems to prevent harm and abuse, with staff well-trained in safeguarding. Medicine administration is managed safely, supported by regular checks. Recruitment processes are thorough, and the environment is kept clean, with effective infection control measures in place. Where incidents have occurred, the service demonstrates a commitment to learning and implementing improvements.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents are supported by trained staff who collaborate with other professionals to ensure consistent care. Nutritional needs are met through assessed and personalised meal choices. Residents are empowered with choice and control over their lives, supported in the least restrictive way possible. The environment is well-suited to residents' needs, and their health needs are proactively managed and supported by access to healthcare professionals.

Regarding how caring the service is, residents build positive relationships with staff who treat them with respect, compassion, and dignity. Their privacy is consistently maintained, and their independence is actively encouraged. Residents' choices about their daily lives are valued and acted upon, with relatives consistently consulted in care planning. Efforts are made to support residents in maintaining important relationships, reducing the risk of isolation.

In relation to how responsive the service is, care plans are tailored to individual needs, with clear strategies for supporting those with challenging behaviours, focusing on distraction techniques. The home has shown an ability to adapt to residents' changing needs, such as modifying the garden environment for a resident's enjoyment. Residents are encouraged to participate in meaningful activities of their choice, both within the home and in the community. A clear complaints procedure is in place, and no complaints have been received in the past year.

Concerning how well-led the service is, the registered manager demonstrates a strong understanding of their responsibilities and actively seeks to improve the service. Regular audits and quality assurance processes are in place to monitor care. Feedback from residents and relatives is actively sought and used to drive improvements. Staff report feeling well-supported by the leadership, contributing to their long tenure at the service. The management team actively stays informed about industry changes and best practices.