We spoke with four parents of people who used the service. They were all complimentary about the staff, describing them as "lovely" and "understanding". They felt that their child's needs were met and confirmed they had been involved in making decisions about their care. Written information was available to people who were new to the service and this was available in a format to meet their needs.

People received care that was planned and delivered in a way to ensure their safety and welfare. Input was sought from other professionals involved in the person's care and risk assessments were updated in line with the provider's policy. Parents were required to sign these to show they agreed with them. The parents we spoke with felt that their child's needs were met and they were well looked after. People were cared for by staff who received appropriate professional development and had been trained in paediatric basic life support. Staff had also received child protection training that was relevant to their roles and were able to describe the procedure they would follow if they had concerns.

People who use the service, staff and visitors were protected against the risks of unsafe or unsuitable premises. Cedar Lodge had recently been refurbished. There was wheel chair access throughout the building and regular maintenance took place.

We spoke with parents of people who use the service and looked at five people's records. Parents were required to sign a consent form relating to how information on their child would be used and they told us that they had been involved in developing their child's support plan. Staff told us they always asked people's permission before delivering care and were able to describe the different ways they communicated with people who were unable to verbalise their preferences.

Overall, people were satisfied with the care and treatment their child had received and knew how to make a complaint. One person told us that the service was "brilliant". There was always a qualified nurse on shift and there were systems in place to organise additional staff, if required. Some staff we spoke with felt that there were not always enough staff if people who use the service had complex needs.

People's support plans were reviewed and updated every six months. Staff told us that people's risk assessments were updated annually or as required. However, in two people's records the risk assessments had not been updated in over a year. We also saw that care was not always delivered in line with a person's support plan.

Children and young people said 'I like it here', 'I like it that my friends are here at the same time' and 'I get to do what I want'.

Comments about the food were positive 'I like the food', 'tea was good' and 'they know what I like'.

Children and young people said they like their rooms and feel comfortable during thier stay at Cedar Lodge. Children made positive comments about activities provided saying 'I like the soft room', 'I like making music', 'I like listening to music', 'I like talking to staff' and when the weather is sunny we go out'.