This inspection took place on 16 and 21 November 2017 and was announced.

The New Barn provides personal care for up to 12 adults with learning disabilities. At the time of this inspection 12 people were living there.

A registered manager was in post and present throughout this 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 kept safe from the potential harm of abuse or ill-treatment as staff knew how to recognise and respond to such concerns. People were supported by enough staff to meet their needs and who responded to them promptly.

The provider followed safe recruitment procedures when employing new staff members. People were assisted with their medicines safely by staff who were competent to do so. The provider had processes in place for identifying and addressing any staff member’s unsafe behaviour or practice.

The provider had infection prevention and control systems in place including cleaning schedules and processes for “deep cleans”. The registered manager had also identified link person’s to attend local infection, prevention and control events.

People were supported by a compassionate and motivated staff team. Staff members knew those they supported well and respected their privacy and dignity. People were encouraged to be as independent as they felt able to be. People received support to identify and achieve goals in their lives including educational, vocational and personal aspirations. People took part in activities that they found to be stimulating, challenging and enjoyable.

People were supported by a staff team that had the skills and knowledge to meet their needs. New members of staff completed an induction to their role and were assisted to develop the skills they needed to work with people. Staff attended training that was relevant to the people they supported and any additional training needed to meet people’s needs was provided. Staff members were encouraged and supported to achieve qualifications in care.

Staff received support and guidance from a management team who they found approachable. People and staff felt able to express their views and felt their opinions mattered.

People’s rights were maintained by staff members who were aware of current guidance and legislation directing their work. People were involved in decisions about their care and had information they needed in a way they understood.

People were involved in the development of their care and support plans which were individual to them. People received care from staff members who knew their individual likes and dislikes and histories.

People and their relatives were encouraged to raise any issues or concerns. The management team had systems in place to address any concerns or complaints.

People had regular contact with the registered manager. The provider had systems in place to monitor the quality of support given and to make changes when needed.