The Pines (Active Prospects)

The Pines is a residential care home that supports up to six individuals with profound learning disabilities and complex physical health needs. This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) reflects an inspection focused on the overall quality and safety of the care provided. The inspection found that the service is designed and operated in line with best practice, aiming to help residents live fulfilling lives with choice and independence. The findings indicate a consistent standard of care across all key areas, with the service consistently meeting regulatory requirements and demonstrating a commitment to person-centred support.

On safety, residents are protected from harm and abuse, with staff knowledgeable about identification and reporting procedures. Risks are carefully assessed and managed, and appropriate equipment is available. Recruitment practices are thorough, ensuring staff suitability. Medication is managed safely and administered with individual preferences in mind. Infection control measures are robust, keeping the environment clean and residents safe. Learning from incidents is actively pursued to improve practices, as seen in the reduction of medication errors.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs and choices are consistently met, aligning with national guidance. The service promotes positive behaviour support, aiming for the least restrictive approach. Staff receive relevant training and ongoing development, with a structured induction for new team members. Residents are supported to maintain good nutrition and hydration, with individual preferences and health needs carefully monitored. The home facilitates access to healthcare professionals and implements their advice effectively, ensuring consistent and timely care. The building itself is personalised and adapted to meet resident needs, with various aids to promote independence. While staff generally ensure mental capacity assessments are in place, best interest decisions did not always record all involved parties, though this was promptly addressed.

Regarding how caring the service is, staff are consistently described as kind, respectful, and compassionate, providing individualised attention and ensuring residents feel loved and cared for. Residents are treated with dignity, and staff are attentive to their emotional needs, recognising signs of happiness and distress. Care plans detail communication needs, and staff use appropriate aids. Residents are encouraged to participate in social activities both within the home and in the wider community, with their choices and preferences actively sought and involved in their care.

In its responsiveness, the service actively supports residents in participating in social activities both within the home and in the wider community, and their choices are consistently sought and incorporated into their care. Residents have access to adaptive technology and are supported to pursue their interests. Visitors and relatives have reported a welcoming and caring atmosphere where both residents and staff appear cheerful and relaxed. Feedback mechanisms are in place, and residents' views are actively sought and considered.

In terms of being well-led, the service is managed effectively with strong oversight from the provider. The registered manager utilises quality assurance systems to drive improvements in resident care. Staff feel well-supported by management. The service actively seeks and acts upon feedback from residents, their families, and other professionals. Practices align with best guidance, including the use of positive behaviour support principles and a commitment to the least restrictive approach, with no restrictive intervention practices being used.