The inspection took place on 18 November 2016 and was unannounced.

High Ridges is registered to provide accommodation and personal care for up to six people with learning disabilities, autistic spectrum disorder and physical disabilities. There were five people using the service on the day of our inspection.

There was a registered manager in post at the time of our inspection. 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 protected from harm and abuse by staff who had received training in how to recognise, respond to and report abuse. People and their relatives knew how to report any concerns about people’s safety and wellbeing and felt comfortable doing so. The risks associated with individual’s care and support had been assessed and managed. The provider had assessed and organised their staffing requirements based upon people's individual care and support needs. People received their medicines safely from staff.

People were supported by staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet their individual needs. Staff received effective induction, training and supervision. People's rights under the Mental Capacity Act were protected by the provider and staff team, and their consent to care was sought. People had the support they required to eat and drink comfortably and safely, and any associated risks were managed.

People were supported in a kind and caring manner. Staff knew the people living at the home well, and treated them with dignity and respect. People were encouraged and supported to express their views and be involved in decision-making.

People received care and support that was tailored to their individual needs and preferences. They knew how to complain about the service if they needed to. People's feedback on the service was actively sought and acted on.

The provider promoted a positive and inclusive culture within the service. People, their relatives and staff felt informed and involved. Staff felt well supported and able to challenge practice, if necessary. The provider had developed quality assurance systems to drive improvement at the service.