“I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else”

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Affinity Trust’s second residential home in Portsmouth ‘Good’ in all five categories – safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. All Affinity Trust’s registered locations in England are currently rated ‘Good’.

CQC, the independent regulator of social care in England, visited the home unannounced on 8 November 2018. This was the first inspection since Affinity Trust took over the running of the home in 2016.

At this home, Affinity Trust supports three people with learning disabilities with complex needs. The report describes it as a ‘large family style home’, designed and adapted to meet the needs of the people living there. Each person’s bedroom is personalised, with resources and sensory equipment for people to use at their leisure.

The inspector met and spent time with all three people, and also spoke to the registered manager and other staff. They also reviewed care and support plans and medication records.

The inspector noted:

• there was a relaxed and calm atmosphere at the home

• staff had a very good knowledge of the people they supported, so they could meet their needs effectively

• staff knew about people’s lifestyle choices and how to help promote their independence

• people received individual one to one personalised care.

The staff CQC spoke to felt able to give their opinions and that they were listened to: ‘Staff were motivated and hardworking. They shared the philosophy of the management team. Staff spoke positively about the leadership of the company.’

CQC added that the ‘hands on’ registered manager was well respected by the staff team. One said: “We all work well together and support each other here,” while another added, “I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.”

Read the full report on CQC’s website
See all our ratings, reports and inspections