The announced inspection took place on 12 September 2017.

The Haven provides care and accommodation to up to four adults with a learning disability. There were three people living at the service at the time of our inspection who had a variety of

complex needs including autism, physical health needs and behaviours that may challenge.

The service had changed providers and this was our first inspection to the service since it had registered with us in September 2016.

The service was run by a registered manager who was present on the day of our visit. They were registered to manage this service and another small service in the local area which is registered with the same provider. 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.

Staff had been trained to recognise and respond to the signs of abuse. They understood the provider’s whistle blowing policy and were confident they could raise any concerns with the registered manager or outside agencies if this was needed.

There were enough staff with the skills required to meet people's needs. Staff were recruited using procedures designed to protect people from the employment of unsuitable staff. They were deployed in sufficient numbers to meet people’s physical, social and emotional needs.

Assessments of risk were undertaken of the environment and each person’s specific needs and gave guidance to staff about how these risks could be minimised. There were systems in place to review accidents and incidents and make any relevant improvements as a result.

Medicines were managed, stored, disposed of and administered safely. People received their medicines when they needed them and as prescribed.

Staff had received training in infection control and followed this guidance to help minimise the spread of any infection.

Staff were trained to meet people's needs and were supported through regular supervision and an annual appraisal to carry out their roles.

CQC is required by law to monitor the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). DoLS applications had been made to ensure that people were only deprived of their liberty, when it had been assessed as lawful to do so.

People had their health and dietary needs assessed and clear guidance was in place to ensure they were effectively monitored.

People were involved in making decisions about their care and treatment. Care plans were presented in a way that helped people to understand their content. People were given individual support to take part in their preferred hobbies and interests.

Staff respected and valued people’s contributions. They communicated with people in a kind and caring manner and used appropriate touch to reassure them. There was a lot of laughter and conversation during the inspection.

People’s feedback about the service was gained on a daily basis and information was available to their relatives and visitors about how to raise a concern or complaint.

The registered manager was approachable and the atmosphere in the service was relaxed and informal. They were supported by a staff team who understood the aims of the service and were motivated to support people according to their choices and preferences.

Systems were in place to review the quality of the service which were effective in identifying areas where any improvements were required.