An unannounced spot check by the Care Inspectorate has found 'significant strengths' at Blackwood Care's St Leonards Court Housing Support Service in Ayr, grading it 'very good' in one quality indicator and 'good' in another.
The inspection followed a check on service delivery in September, with findings now published.
Positive Interactions and Flexibility Noted
The Care Inspectorate observed "positive, warm and caring interactions" between service users and their carers. They highlighted the "flexibility" of support, which enabled people to access their community and "promoted independence." People were also supported to "pursue their own hobbies and interests" within the local community.
Core staff and management demonstrated a "strong understanding" of the people they supported, according to the report. Medication was "managed safely and effectively," and people enjoyed meals that "reflected their dietary needs and preferences."
Service Details and Staffing Assessment
Blackwood Care - St. Leonard's Court is part of a national, not-for-profit charity organisation providing support to people with physical disabilities, learning difficulties and older people. The provider is Blackwood Homes and Care.
At the time of inspection, the service supported 16 people with one staff team, while a further 31 people living in the community were supported by two separate staff teams.
An extract from the report said: "We found significant strengths in aspects of the care provided and how these supported positive outcomes for people." It continued: "Some people using the service benefited from an alert system which enabled them to access support out with their planned visit times. We observed staff responding promptly and with compassion when the alarm was raised."
Improvements Needed for Continuity
Improvements were needed to provide "greater continuity of care and support for people." The report added: "To support positive experiences and outcomes for people the manager should improve how staffing is assessed, planned and evaluated."
The service was graded 'very good' for supporting people's wellbeing and 'good' for the staff team. When changes in people's health were identified, staff responded "promptly" and ensured "appropriate support" from relevant professionals, with visiting professionals confirming concerns were passed on appropriately.
