We inspected this service on 26 April 2017. The inspection visit was unannounced.

Swallowfields Care Centre is a residential care home for up to 10 people who have a learning disability and autism. People have varied communication needs and abilities. At the time of inspection there were 10 people living at the service.

During the inspection we met the registered manager. 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 felt safe at were safe at Swallowfields Care Centre. Risks of harm to people were identified at the initial assessment of care and staff understood what actions they needed to take to minimise risks. Staff understood people's needs and abilities.

People were supported by staff who understood the signs of abuse and their responsibilities to keep people safe. Recruitment practices were followed that helped ensure only suitable staff were employed at the service.

People were supported by regular members of staff who supported people in a timely manner. Staff were confident and had the knowledge to administer medicines safely. They knew how to support people to take their medicines safely and to keep accurate records.

Staff received the training and support they needed to meet people's needs effectively. Staff felt supported by the management team.

The registered manager understood their responsibility to comply with the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Staff had a good understanding of MCA and DoLS. When people lacked capacity the best interest process was followed.

People were supported to eat meals of their choice and staff understood the importance of people having sufficient nutrition and hydration. Staff referred people to healthcare professionals for advice and support when their health needs changed.

People, relatives and care professionals praised staff for their caring nature. Staff were kind and respected people’s privacy, dignity and independence. Care staff were thoughtful and recognised and respected people's wishes and preferences.

People received person centred care and were supported with activities which were meaningful to them and in line with their interests and preferences.

People knew how to complain and were confident any complaints would be listened to and action taken to resolve them.

The provider audited the care and support delivered and sought feedback from people and relatives regarding the support received. All feedback from audits and questionnaires was positive.

The provider understood their responsibilities in terms of notifying CQC of significant events at the service. Staff supported people in line with the organisational values as support was centred around increasing people’s independence.