Leicester service rated ‘Good’ for safety and independence

A Leicester service supporting people with learning disabilities has been rated as ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for its commitment to safety and independence.

Sycamore Court, which is owned and run by Sanctuary Supported Living (SSL), providing personal care and support for adults aged 18 to 65, received the rating in its first inspection by the CQC.

The report noted how people felt safe with the team at Sycamore Court and how staff were skilled at ensuring residents’ safety. One resident said: “I feel safe with staff; if I have a problem I can talk to them.”

A relative commented: “Staff are really good at keeping people safe, in the building and in the community. They are quick to get in touch if anything happens and are quick to sort things out.”

Highlighted was the fact that each support plan contained an assessment of the risks each person may be exposed to, including medicines, behavioural risks and safety when out in the community.

Also reported was how people were fully involved and supported to make their own choices about their care. The plans identified what was important to residents so staff could help them to make decisions about how to spend their time.

One person stated: “I like it here. It’s lovely to be with my friends. My support workers take me out and I do lots of activities. I can do what I want.”

Another said: “This is our home and staff respect this. They are all good to me and very kind.”

The report said that staff were “kind and caring” and that they were “committed to protecting people’s rights to dignity”.

Staff, residents and their families were encouraged to express opinions and views and were supported to be involved in the development of the service.

Siobhan South, SSL’s local service manager, said: “We are so pleased with our ‘Good’ rating from the CQC. We have a fantastic team here and everyone pulls together to give our residents the highest standard of care and support.

“We work closely with residents and their families to make sure Sycamore Court is a comfortable home and I look forward to seeing what the next year brings.”

I like it here. It’s lovely to be with my friends. My support workers take me out and I do lots of activities. I can do what I want.

Sycamore Court resident