About the service:

Bell Lane is a residential care home that provides accommodation for nursing or personal care to three younger adults with learning disabilities and associated conditions at the time of the inspection. Nursing care was not provided.

People’s experience of using this service:

Some of the people who used the service had complex needs and they did not express their views verbally. During the time we spent with people we saw they appeared comfortable with staff. Other people told us they felt safe with staff support.

Staffing levels were sufficient to meet people’s needs safely and flexibly. Staff knew about safeguarding procedures. Appropriate checks were carried out before staff began to work with people. People received suitable support to take their prescribed medicines.

Risks were assessed and managed. Positive risk taking was encouraged as people were supported to take acceptable risks to help promote their independence.

We have made a recommendation that best practice guidance is followed with regard to the use of aids, adaptations and electronic equipment for people who are registered blind. In order to further promote their independence.

Staff had a good understanding and knowledge of people’s care and support needs. They received the training they needed and regular supervision and support. People were supported to access health care professionals when required.

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. Information was accessible to involve people in decision making about their lives.

Staff knew the people they were supporting well. Care plans were in place detailing how people wished to be supported and people were involved in making decisions about their care. Staff had developed good relationships with people, were caring in their approach and treated people with respect.

People had food and drink to meet their needs. There were opportunities for people to follow their interests and hobbies. They were supported to be part of the local community.

Staff were well-supported due to regular supervision, annual appraisals and an induction programme, which developed their understanding of people and their routines. Staff also received specialised training to ensure they could support people safely and carry out their roles effectively.

There were opportunities for people, relatives and staff to give their views about the service. Staff said the new manager was approachable. The provider undertook a range of audits to check on the quality of care provided.

More information is in the full report: www.cqc.org.uk

Why we inspected: This was the first inspection of the service since it was registered in November 2017.

Follow up: We will monitor all intelligence received about the service to inform the assessment of the risk profile of the service and to ensure the next planned inspection is scheduled accordingly.