We do not currently rate independent standalone substance misuse services.

We found the following areas of good practice:

• The building was clean and safely maintained. Appropriate health and safety checks had been completed and were up to date. There was a programme of maintenance checks for equipment and facilities. This meant that the environment was safe and comfortable for clients.

• Clients risk was managed. All clients had a comprehensive risk assessment in place. Staff had received safeguarding training and were aware of their role and responsibilities in relation to safeguarding.

• There were sufficient numbers of staff to deliver care. Staff were appropriately skilled and supported. There was a programme of mandatory training and regular supervision. Staff accessed National Vocational Qualifications.

• Care was delivered in line with best practice. Recovery was embedded in the delivery and culture of the service. There were strong links with the local recovery community including mutual aid groups. Peer mentors were a visible presence. Care plans were recovery focused. Clients were supported to identify their objectives and the support they needed. Clients were supported to engage with other services.

• Clients received a comprehensive assessment on admission. Care records reflected the findings of the assessment. Clients were involved in the assessment process and completed a self-assessment as part of this process.

• Client feedback on the service was positive. They spoke highly of staff, the treatment they had received and were optimistic about their future.

• Staff morale was good. Staff felt supported by managers and colleagues. There were low absence and sickness rates. Senior managers within the provider organisation were known to staff and visited the service. Staff spoke highly of the local team management. They were considered approachable and open.

• There was a governance structure in place to monitor and support the delivery of care. The service monitored performance through the national drug treatment monitoring system. The service manager contributed to performance reviews for the local treatment network. Processes were in place to report and review adverse incidents and to investigate complaints.