This inspection took place on 29 September 2016 and was unannounced. 97b Barnbygate provides accommodation and personal care for up to six people. On the day of our inspection six people were using the service who had a variety of needs associated with mental and physical health conditions.

The service had a registered manager in post. 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 the risk of abuse and staff had a good understanding of their roles and responsibilities if they suspected abuse was happening. The registered manager shared information with the local authority when needed.

Staffing levels were sufficient to support people’s needs and people received care and support when required. People received their medicines as prescribed and the management of medicines was safe.

People were encouraged to make independent decisions and staff were aware of legislation to protect people who lacked capacity when decisions were made in their best interests. We also found staff were aware of the principles within the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) and had not deprived people of their liberty without applying for the required authorisation.

People were protected from the risks of inadequate nutrition and staff showed a good knowledge of the specialist diets required by people. Referrals were made to health care professionals when needed and staff worked to ensure people were well supported should they require medical interventions.

People who used the service, or their representatives, were encouraged to contribute to the planning of their care and the care plans were individualised and person centred. People and their relatives were treated in a caring and respectful manner and staff delivered support in a relaxed and considerate manner. People were supported to follow their hobbies and interests.

People who used the service, or their representatives, were encouraged to be involved in decisions and systems were in place to monitor the quality of service provision. People also felt they could report any concerns to the management team and felt they would be taken seriously.