Southlands

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of Southlands, a care home supporting six individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism. The inspection, conducted in December 2017, found that the service continues to provide a Good standard of care, aligning with best practices that promote choice, independence, and inclusion for residents. The report highlights the personalised approach taken by the home, ensuring residents are at the heart of their care and have control over how they are supported. It also notes the positive relationships between staff and residents, characterised by kindness and respect for privacy and dignity.

On safety, arrangements are in place to keep people safe and protected from abuse, with individual risk assessments aiming to minimise risk while promoting independence. Residents receive their medicines safely, and infection control measures are in place to protect them. The report mentions that accidents and incidents are monitored and recorded, and lessons learned are used to improve practices.

In terms of how effective the care is, there are sufficient staff with the right skills to meet residents' needs, and staff receive appropriate training and support. Recruitment practices are safe, ensuring suitability for those working with residents requiring care. The report also details how residents' needs and choices are assessed before and after they move into the service, with care plans regularly reviewed. Staff have a good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, supporting residents with maximum choice and control in the least restrictive way possible. Residents have access to nutritious food and drinks, with staff supporting specific dietary needs and ensuring health is maintained with professional support when needed.

Regarding caring practices, residents reported feeling well-supported by kind and caring staff, who they viewed as friends. Interactions observed were friendly, with staff and residents sharing common interests. Residents receive emotional support, and their views are actively sought and acted upon through regular "talk times" with key workers and "house meetings." Care plans are developed with the resident at the centre, encouraging independence. The home also supports residents in maintaining relationships with family and friends, with no restrictions on visiting times.

In terms of being responsive, residents indicated that the care and support received met their needs and preferences. The service was also highlighted for being nominated as a finalist in the LaingBuisson awards for Social Care Personalisation, reflecting their person-centred approach.

Concerning how well-led the service is, there is a registered manager in place responsible for its management. The provider has systems for monitoring service quality, including regular checks and audits to ensure safety and quality. The service aims to ensure residents can live as ordinary a life as possible. While the report is overwhelmingly positive, it’s important to note that specific areas for development are not detailed in this summary, but the overall findings from the CQC inspection are consistently good across all categories.