This was an unannounced inspection carried out on 20 July 2017.

This was the first inspection of 53, Sixth Avenue since it was registered with the Care Quality Commission. The premises had previously been owned by another provider.

53, Sixth Avenue is registered to provide accommodation and personal care to a maximum of four people who have learning and/or physical disabilities. At the time of inspection three people were using the service. Nursing care is not provided.

A registered manager was in place. 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.

This inspection was brought forward and carried out following an unexpected death of someone who had used the service that was subject to an initial investigation by the local safeguarding authority and police. The police have determined that no further action is necessary. During this inspection no specific risks were identified and having reviewed the information we hold are taking no further action with regards to this incident.

Due to their health conditions and complex needs not all people were able to share their views about the service they received. Those that could speak with us told us that care was provided with kindness. Staff knew the people they were supporting well and we observed that care was provided with patience and people’s privacy and dignity were respected. Care plans were in place detailing how people wished to be supported and people were involved in making decisions about their care. Risks to people’s well-being were assessed and kept under regular review.

There were sufficient staff to provide safe and individual care to people. Staffing arrangements were flexible to make sure there were staff rostered to accompany people to any leisure events or health care appointments. People were protected as staff had received training about safeguarding and knew how to respond to any allegation of abuse. When new staff were appointed, thorough vetting checks were carried out to make sure they were suitable to work with people who needed care and support.

Staff received opportunities for training to meet peoples' care needs and in a safe way. A system was in place for staff to receive supervision and appraisal. The home was meeting the requirements of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Staff had a good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and best interest decision making, when people were unable to make decisions themselves.

People were involved in decisions about their care. They were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible. The policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

People were provided with opportunities to follow their interests and hobbies and they were introduced to new activities. They were supported to contribute and to be part of the local community. Staff had developed good relationships with people, were caring in their approach and treated people with respect. People and relatives were positive about the care provided.

People had access to health care professionals to make sure they received care and treatment. Staff followed advice given by professionals to make sure people received the treatment they needed. People received their medicines in a safe and timely way. People received a varied diet and had food and drink to meet their needs.

Staff said the registered manager was approachable. Communication was effective to ensure staff and relatives were kept up to date about any changes in people’s care and support needs and the running of the service. The provider continuously sought to make improvements to the service people recei