We do not currently rate independent standalone substance misuse services.

We found the following issues that the service provider needed to improve:

• Staff were not recording the administration of a high-dose vitamin injection, individual sessions with the academic psychologist and some health and safety checks.

However, we also found the following areas of good practice:

• Clients were truly respected and valued as individuals. Staff treated clients with dignity, respect and compassion. Clients were empowered as partners in their care and actively involved in service development.
• The service accepted vulnerable people who might be excluded from other residential treatment programmes. Staff planned for discharge in the first few weeks of clients’ stay (including supporting clients to find appropriate accommodation). Staff gave clients accessible information about the service and how to complain.
• Clients completed their own recovery-oriented care plans. Clients were involved in reviewing the effectiveness of their own treatment. Staff considered the Mental Capacity Act when working with clients who were intoxicated. There were measures in place to ensure that clients gave informed consent to admission.
• The building was generally warm, pleasant, clean and tidy. There were enough staff to keep people safe. Care records included a comprehensive risk assessment. There was clear guidance for staff to follow if they had concerns about clients’ safety.
• Managers and staff were passionate about working with vulnerable people, and believed in the potential for recovery. There was a board assurance framework, risk register and plan to improve clinical governance. Staff were engaged and involved in service development. The service reported on outcomes for each individual client.