The Rivers

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of the inspection conducted at The Rivers, a care home for younger adults with learning disabilities or autistic spectrum disorder. The inspection aimed to assess the quality of care provided across several key areas, ensuring the service continues to meet high standards. The findings cover the safety, effectiveness, caring nature, responsiveness, and leadership of the home.

Regarding safety, the home has effective safeguarding systems, and staff are well-trained to protect residents from harm. Risk assessments and safety checks are regularly conducted, covering areas like fire safety and equipment, and safe recruitment procedures are in place. While medicines are managed safely, there was a point noted where the provider’s audits had not identified that the registered manager had not notified the CQC about Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisations, though this was addressed during the inspection.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs and choices are thoroughly assessed and regularly reviewed, with strong involvement from families. Staff are well-trained and supported, and they work effectively with other healthcare professionals to ensure residents receive timely and appropriate care. The environment is well-adapted to meet residents' needs, and significant effort is made to support residents in managing their own health and making informed decisions about their care in line with legal frameworks like the Mental Capacity Act.

The service demonstrates a caring approach, with staff treating residents thoughtfully and kindly, fostering positive relationships and understanding individual preferences. Residents are actively involved in decisions about their care and are supported to maintain their privacy, dignity, and independence. Staff are adept at understanding non-verbal communication and ensuring residents feel respected and are not discriminated against.

In terms of responsiveness, residents' needs and preferences are at the forefront of care planning, with detailed and personalised support plans developed with input from residents and their families. Staff are proactive in identifying and responding to changes in residents' needs, and residents are empowered to make choices and have control over their lives. The home has accessible ways for residents to provide feedback, and although there have been no complaints recently, the management views any feedback as an opportunity for improvement.

Finally, on being well-led, the service is consistently managed by a registered manager who fosters a culture of high-quality, person-centred care. Leadership and governance are strong, promoting learning and an open environment, with regular audits and checks in place to ensure continuous improvement and maintain high standards across all aspects of the service.