The Kent Autistic Trust - 165 Jemmett Road

165 Jemmett Road is a residential care home in Ashford providing accommodation and personal care for up to six adults with learning disabilities and autism. The home aims to help residents live ordinary, independent lives through personalized care and community inclusion. The latest inspection by the Care Quality Commission highlights a well-maintained and supportive environment where residents are protected and encouraged to thrive, while pointing out areas of management transition that the provider is actively addressing.

The home maintains a strong focus on safety through thorough risk assessments, careful staff recruitment, and secure medication management. The premises are kept clean and tidy, and staff are well-trained in recognizing and reporting potential abuse or handling emergencies. While safety protocols are robust, staff are actively encouraged to support residents in taking measured daily risks, such as enjoying trips to theme parks and London attractions.

Residents receive effective support from a knowledgeable team that works closely with speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and behavioral support specialists. Staff undergo comprehensive inductions and regular training, including Makaton sign language, to improve communication with residents. Care plans and nutritional needs are carefully managed, with residents actively involved in choosing and preparing their meals.

The home provides a consistently caring environment where staff treat residents with genuine kindness, respect, and compassion. Staff understand residents well and use various communication methods to ensure their voices are heard and their privacy and dignity are promoted. Relatives provide positive feedback regarding the warmth and attentiveness of the staff team.

Care is highly responsive and tailored to each individual's preferences, likes, and dislikes through regular reviews involving families and healthcare professionals. Residents engage in a wide range of personalized activities, and the management works proactively with relatives to resolve any issues before they escalate.

At the time of the inspection, a registered manager was not yet officially in post, though the provider had successfully recruited a manager who was currently going through the registration process. The leadership promotes an open, empowering culture where staff feel supported, and regular feedback from residents, relatives, and staff is actively used to drive ongoing improvements and service sustainability.