We undertook an announced inspection of Real Life Options on 7 December 2016.

Real Life Options provides supported living in two supported living sites for people with learning disabilities in the Oxfordshire area. They also provide support for people in their own homes. At the time of our inspection four people were receiving a personal care service.

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.

None of the people who used the service were able to speak with us. Relatives told us people were safe. Staff understood their responsibilities in relation to safeguarding. Staff had received regular training to make sure they able to recognise and report abuse. The service had systems in place to notify the appropriate authorities where concerns were identified.

Where risks to people had been identified risk assessments were in place and action had been taken to manage the risks. Staff were aware of people’s needs and followed guidance to keep them safe. People received their medicine as prescribed.

There were sufficient staff to meet people’s needs. Staff rotas confirmed planned staffing levels were consistently maintained. The provider had robust recruitment procedures and conducted background checks to ensure staff were suitable for their role.

Staff understood the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and applied its principles in their work. The MCA protects the rights of people who may not be able to make particular decisions themselves. The registered manager was knowledgeable about the MCA and how to ensure the rights of people who lacked capacity were protected.

Relatives told us they were confident they would be listened to and action would be taken if they raised a concern. The service had systems to assess the quality of the service provided. Where learning needs had been identified action was taken to make improvements which promoted people’s safety and quality of life. Systems were in place that ensured people were protected against the risks of unsafe or inappropriate care.

People had enough to eat and drink. People required minimal support with shopping and food preparation. People could eat independently.

Staff spoke positively about the support they received from the registered manager. Staff supervision and meetings were scheduled as were annual appraisals. Staff told us the registered manager was approachable and there was a good level of communication within the service.

Relatives told us the service was friendly, responsive and well managed. The service sought people’s views and opinions and acted upon them.