A neurological care service told it 'requires improvement' has seen it's rating raised to 'good' by a national health watchdog.
The Albert Road care provider, in Levenshulme, which provides personal care and support services to those with an acquired brain injury or with a neurological condition, was given the significantly improved rating by the inspectors of the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The CQC report said Albert Road is 'consistently managed and well-led' and curates a 'person centred, open, inclusive and empowering' service which 'achieves good outcomes for people'. This is an improvement from the service's inspection in 2019, when the CQC inspectors found significant problems and ' widespread shortfalls in service '.
In July 2020 the watchdog found 'significant improvements had been made from the previous inspection in October 2019', which had continued to be maintained in the services November 2022 visit.
The service run by National Neurological Services Ltd (NNS), had two inspectors talk to four people who used the service, and seven members of staff including the regional operations manager, registered manager and three support workers.
The inspectors observations found people were 'positive about living at Albert Road', with 'respectful and polite' interactions between people and staff, and positive feedback from families of those who use the service. The CQC considered whether the service was 'safe, effective, well-led, responsive and caring' - all aspects received a 'good' rating.
Regional Operations Director, Charlotte Lumley said: "I’m incredibly proud of the team and my colleagues who have supported Albert Road to achieve this outcome and be recognised by our regulator the Care Quality Commission as a care service which is ‘good’ in all areas."
Since the 2019 feedback from healthcare professionals, National Care Group, the parent company of NNS has invested £141,427.52 with additional investment being reviewed.
These investments included a wheelchair lift to the front entrance, lounge extension to create communal space, room converted to kitchen diner, improvements to rear garden space to improve access, and health and safety systems and technology to ensure safety.
"The garden area was designed and created by our colleagues and the people we support," Charlotte added, "we gave funding to the service so they could personalise the space exactly how they wanted it. This has been used over the summer for barbeques and other activities and celebrations."
Key points from the CQC report as mentioned are:
- “Medicine management practices were safe. Care plans were detailed, providing clarity on individuals needs, likes and dislikes. Training was comprehensive”
- “People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff support them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.”
- “People told us they felt safe and happy”
- “The service had made recent investments in the outside provision with the introduction of a quiet space and newly decorated outdoor seating area.”
- “Routines were flexible and people took part in activities of their own choosing both in and away from the home. Staff promoted choice and independence and took into consideration areas of equality and diversity.”
Charlotte said: "The people we support play an active role in their community such as visiting local churches, community activities and groups, shopping locally and going out for walks etc.
"This was identified as goals by the individuals and our team have supported them to achieve them. One individual likes to bake and with support from colleagues, he will go to local shops and purchase the ingredients then make a cake for the whole house to enjoy.
"This is supported by a cohesive team who genuinely care and want the best outcomes for our individuals. They truly work hard to unlock people’s potential."
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