The inspection took place on 10 August 2017, and was unannounced. This was the first inspection of this provider following a change to their company name.

The service is registered to provide accommodation for up to 21 people. On the day of our inspection there were 20 people using the service.

There was a registered manager in place. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, there are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.

Staff understood their responsibility to safeguard people from harm and abuse. Risks to people’s health and wellbeing were identified and understood by staff. People were supported to live their lives even if risks were present. Sufficient staff were provided with the right skills and knowledge to support people. Recruitment processes were robust, this helped to protect people from staff who may not be suitable to work in the care industry. Staff undertook training to manage medicine's safely.

Training was provided for staff to ensure they had the skills required to support people. New staff shadowed experienced staff until they were competent in their role. Staff received supervision and appraisals, which allowed discussion to be held about training or performance issues.

People’s rights were protected and staff advised and supported people to make informed decisions for themselves. The registered manager and staff were aware of their responsibilities in regard to the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

People were supported appropriately to eat and drink to help maintain their nutritional intake. Staff reported any concerns to relevant health care professionals. People nutritional needs were met.

Staff supported people with kindness and compassion. People's privacy and dignity was maintained. Care records were monitored and reviewed regularly or as people’s needs changed, which helped to maintain people’s wellbeing. Confidential information was held securely. Information about advocacy services was provided to people. End of life care was provided.

A complaints procedure was in place. People at the service told us they had no complaints to raise and they were satisfied with the service they received.

Staff understood the management system in place and understood their roles and responsibilities. There was an ‘on call’ system in place outside of office hours. This allowed people, their relatives or staff to gain help and advice, at any time. Quality assurance checks occurred to monitor the service and identify any areas for improvement. People’s views were sought and were acted upon.