Ocknell Park offers accommodation and personal care for up to twelve people living with a learning disability, autism or mental health needs.

The inspection was unannounced and was carried out on 15 and 21 September 2017 by one inspector.

There was a registered manager in place. However, they were temporarily managing another home managed by the provider. The deputy manager was providing day to day management with ad hoc support of the registered manager and assistant regional director. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the home. 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 home is run.

People’s rights were not always protected because staff had not always followed the Mental Capacity Act 2005 guidance to determine people’s capacity and ensure decisions were made in their best interests. Deprivation of liberty safeguards had been submitted for authorisation when required. Other notifications were submitted to the commission when required.

People and staff told us they felt the home was safe. Staff had received safeguarding training and explained the action they would take to report any concerns. Safe recruitment procedures were in place which ensured only suitable staff were employed. Sufficient staff were deployed to meet people’s needs, including one to one and two to one support in the community.

Individual and environmental risks relating to people’s health and welfare had been identified and assessed to reduce those risks. Regular safety checks were carried out on the environment and equipment to keep people safe. Plans were in place to manage emergencies and personal evacuation plans were in place for people.

People had detailed support plans which provided guidance for staff in how to support them. Some of the information in the care plans needed to be updated, but staff were well informed about people’s needs.

Staff understood the importance of empowering people to make choices and take control of their lives and build confidence, self-esteem and achieve positive outcomes. People were encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities, both at home and in the community, which increased their skills and independence.

Staff communicated with people in a way that met their needs, such as pictures and symbols which helped them to reach informed decisions. Staff were kind and caring, treated people with dignity and respect and ensured their privacy was maintained.

People were provided with sufficient food and drink to meet their specific dietary needs and were supported to prepare their own meals if they wished to do so. People had access to health professionals when required and were supported to maintain their health and well-being.

There was a positive, supportive and open culture within the home. Staff felt supported by the management team and were listened to and involved in the development of the service.

Complaints procedures were available and any concerns were appropriately addressed.