This announced inspection took place on 07 and 08 March 2018. We gave the service 48 hours’ notice of the inspection visit because it is small and the manager is often out of the office supporting staff or providing care and we needed to be sure they would be available.

Wigan Respite Service is a residential care home providing respite care. People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as a single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection. This was the first time this service had been inspected since registering under the current provider on 24 January 2017.

Wigan Respite Service is situated in Ince, a suburb of Wigan. Accommodation is provided for up to four adults with learning disabilities, autism and physical disabilities. The property is a single storey building. Facilities include a garden, sensory room, lounge and dining kitchen.

There was 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 using the service were safe. Staff we spoke with demonstrated a good understanding of how to recognise risks and protect people from harm or abuse. The service protected people’s rights and was compliant with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and associated Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Staff took care to understand how people made decisions and consented to receive care and support. Positive behavioural support plans were in place and risk assessments reflected good practice in minimising restrictions. The building and facilities were safely maintained.

People using the service had comprehensive assessments and care plans. Care plans reflected people’s needs, wishes and preferences and were reviewed and updated regularly. The service consulted with families and other professionals involved to ensure care plans provided enough detail.

Staff had received training which was appropriate to the needs of people using the service. Relatives were able to provide additional information and training for staff to ensure individual needs were met consistently. Regular communication with people’s relative's ensured information was up to date.

The service had clear values and the staff team were observed to behave in caring and person centred ways. A broad range of activities were available including karaoke, arts and crafts, cooking and trips to the local community. People’s preferences for social activities were known and accommodated. Menus were prepared to reflect people’s preferences. There was always a choice of food available. Staff had received training on supporting people to eat and drink, including people needing modified diets.

A clear management structure was in place; in addition to the registered manager, a service manager had been appointed. Relatives and staff we spoke with said the appointment had contributed to an improved quality of care.