The inspection took place on 18 July 2018 and was announced. This was the first inspection of Murach House since it registered with CQC in August 2017.

Murach House is a ‘care home’. People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection. Murach House accommodates up to six people. At the time of our inspection there were six people living at the service. Murach House has been developed and designed in line with the values that underpin the Registering the Right Support and other best practice guidance. These values include choice, promotion of independence and inclusion. People with learning disabilities and autism using the service can live as ordinary a life as any citizen. Registering the Right Support CQC policy

There was a registered manager in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they 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.

People were protected from the risk of harm as systems were in place to keep them safe. Risk assessments and positive behaviour support plans were completed. These gave staff detailed guidance on the support people required to remain safe. Accidents and incidents were monitored and reviews included looking at what could have been done differently to aid staff learning. Staff had a clear understanding of how to safeguard people and knew what steps they should take if they suspected abuse. Health and safety and infection control procedures were monitored closely and equipment had been serviced where required. A contingency plan was in place to ensure people would continue to receive their care in the event of an emergency.

Medicines were managed well and records showed that people received their medicines in accordance with their prescriptions. People were supported to maintain good health and had regular access to a range of healthcare professionals. People were able to choose what they wanted to eat and drink and healthy options were promoted by staff. People's legal rights were protected as staff acted in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Where required, independent mental capacity advocates were involved to support people.

Sufficient numbers of skilled staff were deployed to support people both when spending time at home or going out. Staff worked flexibly to meet people’s needs and understood the importance of consistency. Prior to starting work at the service recruitment checks were completed to help ensure only suitable staff were employed. Staff received specialist training to support them in their roles and regular staff supervision was provided to monitor staff well-being and performance.

Prior to moving into the service, a detailed assessment process was followed. Information was gathered from a number of sources in order to determine if the service could meet the person’s needs. A transition period had been planned for each person to ensure their move to Murach House was as smooth as possible. Care plans were developed from information gained during the assessment and transition period and continued to develop as people settled into their new home. People were supported to develop their independence and gain new skills. Individual activity programmes were designed with people and took into account their likes, dislikes and preferences.

People were supported by staff who showed kindness and care. People's dignity and privacy was respected by staff and people were able to choose how and where they spent their time. Staff had a good understanding of people's communication needs and supported people to make decisions about their care. People