We inspected Orchard End Limited – Highnam on the 13 December 2016. Orchard End Limited provides support to three people living at a nearby shared house called Sunnybank. There were three people living at the service; however only one of these people requires support with their personal care needs. This was an announced inspection, as the service is small and we needed to ensure the registered manager was available. This was the first time we had inspected this service.

There was a registered manager in post on the days of our inspection. They were in the process of handing the management of the service to a new manager, who had history of working with the service. The registered manager is also one of the providers of the service. 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.

People were kept safe. Support workers ensured people were protected from the risks associated with their care. People were supported with their independence and to take positive risks.

People enjoyed spending time with support workers and were supported to live full and active lives. They were supported by a kind, caring and compassionate support team. Support workers clearly knew people’s needs, wishes and preferences.

People told us they felt safe with support workers and safe in the home. Staff had a good understanding of safeguarding and the service took appropriate action to deal with any concerns or allegations of abuse.

People's needs were assessed. Where any risks were identified, management plans were in place. They were supported in a way that recognised their rights to take risks. The care and support people received was personalised to their needs.

People views on the service sought. The registered manager and provider ensured the views of people and healthcare professionals views mattered. Quality assurance systems were in place to enable the service to identify areas for improvement and ensure people received a good quality service.