Setting

New Start

50-60 Christchurch Road Sheffield S Yorks S3 9HN

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New Start

Announced Inspection 14th & 15th June 2004 Residential Family Centre

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England.

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission.

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The role of CSCI is to:

• Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role.

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Inspection Methods & Findings

SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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The 4-point scale ranges from:

4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. New Start Page 1

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Address

50-60 Christchurch Road, Sheffield, S Yorks, S3 9HN

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Name of manager

Ms Jane Cohen (currently being registered)

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Do additional conditions of registration

Date of last inspection NA New Start Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 14th June 2004 ID Code

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Do additional conditions of registration

Name of Inspector 1 Debbie Foster 073011

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. NONE

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Name of Establishment Representative at

the time of inspection Jane Cohan New Start Page 3

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Every establishment that falls within the jurisdiction of the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI), is subject to inspection, to assess whether the establishment is meeting the National Minimum Standards relevant to that setting and the requirements of the Care Standards Act 2000 and / or the Children Act 1989 as amended.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the CSCI in respect of New Start.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The inspection findings relate to the National Minimum Standards (NMS) for Residential Family Centres published by the Secretary of State under the Care Standards Act 2000.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The Regulations applicable to the inspected service are secondary legislation, with which a service provider must comply. Service providers are expected to comply fully with the National Minimum Standards. The National Minimum Standards will form the basis for judgements by the CSCI regarding registration, the imposition and variation of registration conditions and any enforcement action.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The report follows the format of the NMS and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

• Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Compliance with the Regulations • Required actions on the part of the provider • Recommended good practice • Summary of the findings • Report of the Lay Assessor (where relevant) • Provider’s response and proposed action plan to address findings

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INSPECTION VISITS

Inspections are undertaken in line with the agreed regulatory framework with additional visits as required. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Care Standards Act 2000 and the Children Act 1989 as amended. The report is based on the findings at the specified inspection dates. New Start Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. There are two buildings adjacent to one another, which are brick built. One building contains the bedsits and flats accommodation for the families and the other, which has office, crèche, kitchen, play area and meeting room facilities. There is a designated garden and play area outside for the children. The home is situated in a residential area just outside the city centre and is on a bus route. There are local shops and schools near by. New Start Page 6

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

(This is an overview of the inspector’s findings, which includes good practice, quality issues, areas to be addressed or developed and any other concerns.) Purpose and function. The homes statement of purpose in the main met the requirements. Minor amendments were needed. There were procedures for new admissions and for those leaving the service. The parents said they had not had a planned visit to the home prior to admission. Quality of Care. The parents interviewed were aware of their support care plans. They had attended reviews and had opportunities to give their views on such matters. There was no initial care plan for one parent from the placing authority although there was a referral form. Daily recording did not always reflect the care plan objectives and detail specifically the work undertaken. The parents interviewed said they had access to health care professionals, appointments were planned and recorded on files. Parents said the staff were, helpful and supportive. They got

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

on with their keyworkers. A parent visited the local shops and park on a regular basis. There had been trips to the cinema and swimming baths. Three parents confirmed they were aware they could access and read their files. Parents’ and Children’s Rights. Parents interviewed and questionnaires (2) received in the main said they were consulted about decisions made about them. The staff said they always listen to the family members and explained the reasons for actions to be taken. The staff said clear boundaries were set for families. Parents confirmed this occurred. There is a two weekly residents meeting. The service had clear policies and procedures, which had been explained to the families on acceptable behaviour and the consequences of unacceptable behaviour of themselves and their visitors. The home did not have a booklet or equivalent to provide information to visitors on the expectations of how unsafe behaviour would be dealt with. The staff interviewed said

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

the privacy of the families was a high priority at New start. They always knocked and requested an invitation in to the flats. The parents confirmed this occurred. The parents said they could take and make telephone calls in private. Parents and the staff said they were aware how to make a complaint. Protection. The staff interviewed verbalised the safety and welfare of children and adults procedures and said they had attended child protection training. Each parent and child had a risk assessment. Parents explained to the inspector areas on work relating to welfare and protection, which was going whilst staying at New Start. The home had adult protection procedures and other related policies. Staff said they challenged aggressive behaviours, giving direction to those concerned when necessary. One notifiable incident had been reported to the Commission since the service had opened.

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

Staffing. The home had a core of staff who had experience of working with adults and children New Start Page 7 previously within other service settings. The inspector noted there were occasions when staff with less than one years experience working within a residential service and had not finished their probationary period were left in charge of a shift. The home did have a senior person on call for staff to contact for advice if required. Five staff had NVQ 3 training equivalent or above. Other staff, were about to commence NVQ 3 training. There were good communication systems in place for the staff, weekly staff meetings, supervision and daily shift handovers. The staff said each resident was discussed at all shift handovers. The handover observed by the inspector confirmed this practice. The home had a detailed selection and vetting procedure for recruiting the staff. The staff stated that there were

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

always at least two staff on duty each shift. The staff interviewed said, that the staffing levels were satisfactory. This met the condition of registration. Staff interviewed, were positive about their work. They said they felt supported by the manager and the rest of the staff team. The frequency of supervision was above the minimum requirement of monthly. They had received a detailed induction, which included the policies and procedures of the service along with several training courses already. Not all had received training in care and control, managing difficult behaviour first aid and health and safety. The service did have courses planned to take place in the coming months in these areas. Premises. The property was maintained, decorated and furnished to a high standard. A parent said she made use of the local facilities. There are bed-sits and one bed roomed flats within one housing block. The family accommodation had a kitchenette, lounge dining room, and a

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

bathroom with toilet. All areas were clean, tidy, equipped and furnished above the required standard. With addition baby equipment, televisions and DVD player. Three parents said they were pleased with the accommodation, it gave them privacy, comfortable and well equipped. The shared facilitates include offices, meeting rooms, laundry and play areas. In the main there were no hazards noted with the exception of window restrainers. On a landing area the inspector noted that a window opened to a significant width which could pose a possible danger. The fire records were checked and met the required standard. Organisation and Management. The service had and continues to build relationships with the community. E.g. local service such as medical centres and the professionals, local community groups which some families join. The manager prepares a monthly monitoring report on the service. Some further development of this area is still required. The service had a monthly visit from and

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

independent person to monitor the conduct of the service. The records checked were orderly and well organised making information easily retrievable. New Start Page 8 Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NA

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas not addressed from the last inspection report, which indicate a non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000 and Residential Family Centres Regulations 2002. No. Regulation Standard Required actions Timescale for action None, this is the first inspection since the service was registered.

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Action is being taken by the Commission for Social Care Inspection to monitor

compliance with the above requirements. New Start Page 9

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COMPLIANCE WITH CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION (IF APPLICABLE)

Providers and managers must comply with statutory conditions of their registration. The conditions applying to this registration are listed below, with the inspector's assessment of compliance from the evidence at the time of this inspection.

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COMPLIANCE WITH CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION (IF APPLICABLE)

Condition Compliance YES The children are to be 8 years of age or under.

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Comments

The children were all under 8 years old.

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Condition Compliance

When there are 4 or less families placed at the Residential Family Centre there must be two staff on duty during the waking day. When there are 5 or more families placed there must be three staff staff on duty during the waking day. The waking day is 7am to 10.30 pm. Between the hours of 10.30pm and 7am there will be one waking night staff and one member of staff on sleep-in duty.

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Comments

This condition was met. Staff, parents and the roster confirmed this.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED DURING THE INSPECTION

Action Plan: The Registered Person is requested to provide the Commission with an Action Plan, which indicates how requirements are to be addressed with the time scale within which such actions will be taken. This action plan will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which indicate non- compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000, the Children Act 1989, the Residential Family Centres Regulations 2002, or the National Minimum Standards for Residential Family Centres. The Registered Person(s) is/are required to comply within the given time scales. No. Regulation Standard * Requirement Timescale for action

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

1 4 RFC1 Amendments must be made to the statement of purpose to ensure it reflects the service accurately. 28 th August

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 13 RFC2 The admission of service users must be in line with the statement of purpose and policy for admission. Wherever possible service users must visit the home prior to admission. 28 th August

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3 13 RFC2 Support plans for service users must contain the detail and plans for service users leaving the service. The support plan must be agreed with the placing authority and signed. 28 th July

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

4 13 RFC3 The placing authority must provide a care plan for all service users. 28 th July

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

5 13 RFC3 Daily recordings must be specific and reflect the placement and support care plan 28 th August

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

6 11 RFC4 A secure receptacle for storing medication, which may need refrigeration must be provided.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Staff must receive first aid training appropriate to their role and duties. A first aider must be on each shift. 28 th July New Start Page 11 7 11 RFC8 A booklet or other form of communication must be produced to provide information to visitors on the services expectations on how unsafe behaviour will be addressed. How disciplinary and restraint measures will be used and how they relate to unacceptable conduct. 28 th September

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

8 15 RFC14 There must be clear arrangements for staff to deputise in the registered managers absence.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

All staff left in charge of a shift must have completed their probationary period, have substantial experience in working in a residential family centre and not themselves be temporary. Immediatel y 28 th June 2004

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

All staff must receive training in the following area;

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

• Managing difficult behaviour and de- escalation procedure

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

10 21 RFC21 The staff sleeping in must be in registered accommodation, in the allocated provision. Immediatel y 28 th July

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

11 21 RFC22 Window restrainers in landing areas need to meet health and safety regulations, advice must be sought and actioned if appropriate.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Risk assessments must be carried out for all parts of the building and service. These must be recorded. Immediatel y 28 th July

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

12 23 RFC24 The manager must develop further the monitoring of the service to meet fully, regulation 23 and standard 24.1. 28 th September

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

13 19 RFC25 The record of staff employed must include the average hours worked as required by schedule 4. 28 th September New Start Page 12

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which relate to the National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice issues which should be considered for implementation by the registered Person(s). No. Refer to Standard * Recommendation Action

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

1 RFC14 80% of care staff must complete Level 3 in the Caring for Children and Young People NVQ, by 2005.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 RFC14 The registered manager must complete an NVQ Level 4 in working with children and management or equivalent by 2005. New Start Page 13

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Direct Observation YES Sampling • Records YES • Care Plans / Care Pathways YES • Meals NO • Activities NO ‘Tracking’ care and support YES Group discussion with service users NO Group discussion with staff NO Interview of manager YES Service user survey- parents YES Service user survey- children NO Placing officers’ survey YES Staff survey YES Views of local social services department (child protection) YES Visiting Professionals’ feedback YES Tour of Premises YES Inspection of policies YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 14/06/04 Time of Inspection 8:30 AM Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 10.00 Number of Inspector Days 2

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the CSCI assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Residential Family Centres have been met. The following scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls)

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

"0" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not applicable on this occasion. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. New Start Page 14

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Parents and children who use the centre know what they can expect, how they

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written form prior to admission

• Parents and children are admitted to and leave the centre in a planned and

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what the centre sets out to do, how it will operate and the way in which it

will be provided. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The homes statement of purpose in the main met the requirements. Amendments were needed to the manager’s name, the company address and the admissions procedure for families.

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agreed with the parents and children and, where appropriate, the

purchaser, and handled with sensitivity and care.

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Key findings/Evidence Standard met?

The parents said they had not had a planned visit to the home prior to admission. The staff and parents said that explanations and information were given on admission, which assisted in helping them to settle in and be aware of expectations and the rules of the home. There were procedures for new admissions and for those leaving the service. One parent was in the process of making plans with assistance from staff for their discharge at the time of the inspection. However this was not recorded in the support care plan. New Start Page 15

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children and their parents have their needs assessed and written plans outline how the assessment will be undertaken. • Families have access to health care, education, employment and leisure

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activities which promote their good health and well being, including their

mental health, in a safe environment. • Parents’ progress is recorded to reflect their ability to care for the children in a safe manner, promoting their welfare.

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may be practicable with the parent/s and the placing authority, specifying:

• How the centre will undertake the assessment with the parents and • children, including detail of methods of supervision to be used; • How each child’s welfare and well-being will be promoted using any • relevant current local authority plan for that child; • How services will be provided for each resident for their care, treatment, • education and supervision; • The arrangements for contact and visitors; and • The objectives and intended outcomes of the placement. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The parents interviewed were aware of their support care plans. They had attended reviews and had opportunities to give their views on such matters. There was no initial care plan for one parent from the placing authority although there was a referral form. The plans checked were detailed and signed by the parent and keyworker and team leader, however one was not signed by the placing authority social worker. Daily recording did not always reflect the

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may be practicable with the parent/s and the placing authority, specifying:

care plan objectives and detail specifically the work undertaken.

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has local knowledge of opticians, dentists and other primary care centres

such as guidance on substance misuse. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The parents interviewed said they had access to health care professionals, appointments were planned and recorded on files. A written procedure and record was kept for medication to be administered by staff. There was a secure place for it to be stored. At the time of the inspection parents self-medicated. The home did not have a secure place for refrigerated medication to be stored. Records indicated that not all staff had first aid training. One parent said she had undertaken a first aid and baby massage course whilst living at the home. A parent visited the local shops and park on a regular basis. There had been trips to the cinema and swimming baths. Parents could book a baby sitter.

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record for each family of their history and progress to which they have

access. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 Three parents confirmed they were aware they could access and read their files. The entries checked were all signed and dated. Support care plans and reports checked recorded the parents and their children’s progress. New Start Page 17

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Parents and children using the centre feel well-informed and party to decisions made. • Parents and children enjoy sound relationships with staff based on honesty

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and mutual respect

• Parents and children enjoy a level of comfort and security within the centre

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effect on other residents

• The privacy of parents and children is respected and information about them is handled with appropriate confidentiality. • Parents and children are able to complain if they are unhappy with any aspect

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significant others are sought over key decisions which are likely to affect

their daily life and their future. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 Parents interviewed and questionnaires (2) received in the main said they were consulted about decisions made about them. The staff said they always listen to the family members and explained the reasons for actions to be taken. Staff, were aware of the rights of the individuals using the service.

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Staff are able to set and maintain safe, consistent and understandable

boundaries for parents and children in relation to acceptable behaviour. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The staff interviewed and those completing questionnaires (3) said clear boundaries were set for families and these were always explained. Parents interviewed confirmed this occurred. There is a two weekly residents meeting. One parent said one of her suggestions had been implemented. Two parents said they chose not to attend the residents meeting. New Start Page 18

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standards of conduct are acceptable from them and their visitors and are

aware of the possible consequences of unacceptable behaviour. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The service had clear policies and procedures, which had been explained to the families on acceptable behaviour and the consequences of unacceptable behaviour of themselves and their visitors. Staff said visitors were encouraged made welcome. The home had procedure for staff to follow on care and control. Some staff had received care and control and managing difficult behaviour training whilst others had not. The manager said training dates were planned in the next month for care and control. Records were kept of visitors to the service. The home did not have a booklet or equivalent to provide information to visitors on the expectations of how unsafe behaviour will be dealt with.

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Staff respect parents’ and children’s privacy, and confidentiality is

balanced appropriately with the need to protect children. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The staff interviewed said the privacy of the families was a high priority at New start. They always knocked and requested an invitation in to the flats. It would only be in case of an emergency that they would enter without permission. The parents confirmed this occurred. There were policies and procedures on privacy and confidentiality. Staff, were aware of these policies and ensured they were adhered to. Records were stored securely. The pay phone is sited in the laundry. The parents said they could take and make calls in private as people vacated the laundry whilst calls were being made. New Start Page 19

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a maximum of 28 days, and parents and children are kept informed of

progress. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The service had a complaints procedure. Parents and the staff interviewed and those completing questionnaires said they were aware how to make a complaint. Parent said this information had been given verbally and in writing.

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The welfare of children is promoted, children are protected from abuse, and an appropriate response is made to any allegation or suspicion of abuse. • Families are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm • All significant events relating to the protection of children or vulnerable adults

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understood by all staff (including junior, ancillary, volunteer and agency

staff). Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The service had policies and procedures in place to the safety and welfare of children and adults. The staff interviewed verbalised these procedures and said they had attended child protection training. Each parent and child had a risk assessment undertaken to identify any potential risks and look at and implement ways of eliminating or reducing any risk identified. Care and support plans had details of specific areas on safety identified. Parents explained to the inspector areas on work relating to welfare and protection, which was going whilst staying at New Start.

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abuse or self harm or inhuman or degrading treatment, through deliberate

intent, negligence or ignorance, in accordance with written policy. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The home had adult protection procedures and other related policies such as bullying and harassment. Staff interviewed, were aware of these policies. They spoke about promoting the rights of individuals. They said they challenged aggressive behaviours, giving direction to those concerned when necessary. One parent said she had experienced an incident of intimidation by another resident and had received support and guidance from staff. The matter been dealt with and she was happy with the outcome. New Start Page 21

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persons and appropriate authorities of the occurrence of significant events

in accordance with Regulation 26. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The manager and staff were aware of the procedures to follow in reporting significant events to the appropriate authorities. One notifiable incident had been reported to the Commission. The homes records seen by the inspector supported that procedures were being followed.

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

Residential Family Centres Regulations 2002 in the last 12 months.

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

• Death of a resident accommodated in the centre. 0 • Referral of person working at the centre to Secretary of State as unsuitable to work with children. • Serious illness or accident to a resident. 0

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

• Serious outbreak of infectious disease. 0

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

• Allegation that a resident has committed a serious offence. 0 • Actual or suspected involvement of a child (including a parent aged under 18) in prostitution. • Serious incident necessitating calling the police to the centre. 1

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

• Absconding by a resident accommodated in the centre. 0

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Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI under Regulation 26 of the

• Serious complaint about the centre or persons working there. 0 • Instigation of child protection enquiry involving a child accommodated in the centre. New Start Page 22

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Parents and children receive the care and services they need from competent staff. • There is careful selection and vetting of all staff and anyone else resident on the premises. • Staff are sufficient in number, experience and qualification to understand the

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needs of parents and children and who are able to respond appropriately when

required. • Parents and children receive a service from staff who are themselves supported and guided in safeguarding and promoting the children’s welfare. • Staff are trained and enabled to carry out the role to which they are appointed.

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that the Statement of Purpose is fulfilled, and that parents and children

receive the care and services they need. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The home had a core of staff who had experience of working with adults and children previously within other service settings. The manager said there was a core set of agency staff, used to cover the rota when required. At the time of the inspection the service had one team leader working part time. The manager said this person would deputise in her absence. This would not give sufficient cover if the manager were absent for any considerable length of time. The manager did state a further full time team leader was to be employed in the next month. The inspector noted there were occasions when staff with less than one years experience working within a residential service and had not finished their probationary period were left in charge of a shift. The home did have a senior person on call for staff to contact for advice if required.

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that the Statement of Purpose is fulfilled, and that parents and children

The manager said that she was undertaking NVQ 4 training. Five staff had NVQ 3 training equivalent or above. Other staff, were about to commence NVQ 3 training. It was not clear if the required percentage of staff would achieve NVQ 3 by 2005. The staff stated that they had key worker responsibilities for individuals. The staff said each resident was discussed at all shift handovers. The handover observed by the inspector confirmed this practice.

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centre, including evidence that all requirements of Schedule 2 of the

Residential Family Centre Regulations 2002 have been met in every case. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The home had a detailed selection and vetting procedure for recruiting the staff. Three staff files were checked. All appropriate screening had been undertaken. New Start Page 24

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out the placement plan, within the context that responsibility for children

rests with the parents unless otherwise arranged. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The staff stated that there were always at least two staff on duty each shift. The staff interviewed said, that the staffing levels were satisfactory. This met the condition of registration. The pre- inspection questionnaire completed by the manager said all staff were over the age of 18.

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Percentage of care staff having completed Level 3 NVQ in caring for

children and young people or equivalent qualification. 0 %

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All staff, including domestic staff and the manager, are properly accountable

and supported. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 4 Staff interviewed, were positive about their work. They said they felt supported by the manager and the rest of the staff team. There were good communication systems, weekly staff meetings and shift handovers. The staff said they had supervision at two weekly intervals, which covered care work areas, development and training. The frequency of supervision was above the minimum requirement of monthly. They had received a detailed induction, which included the policies and procedures of the service along with several training courses already. Staff explained their role and duties to the inspector and the shift routine. Two parents said they felt well supported by the staff. They particularly got on with their keyworkers. New Start Page 25

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skills required to work with parents and children and fulfil the purpose of the

service. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 Staff interviewed stated they had attended several training courses including an induction, this was confirmed with the three staff records checked. However, not all had received training in care and control, managing difficult behaviour first aid and health and safety. The service did have courses planned to take place in the coming months in these areas. The company had a training programme set up until December 2004. Staff said they felt the training opportunities were good and assisted with their job. The service had opened in January 2004, staff appraisals and development plans would commence within the year. New Start Page 26

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Parents and children live in pleasant, well designed and maintained

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surroundings providing sufficient space and adequate facilities to meet their

needs. • Parents and children enjoy homely accommodation, decorated, furnished and maintained to a high standard, providing adequate facilities for their use. • Shared spaces complement and supplement residents’ private rooms. • Parents and children stay in accommodation that provides physical safety and security.

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its purpose and function, serves the needs of the parents and children, and is

maintained in good order throughout. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The design of he premises met the Statement of Purpose. The property was maintained, decorated and furnished to a high standard. The service is near to local shops, medical centre, schools and a bus route. A parent said she made use of the local facilities, using the parks and shops.

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has usable floor space, fittings and furnishings sufficient and suitable to meet

individual needs and lifestyles. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 4 The living accommodation for the families is to a high standard. There are bed-sits and one bed roomed flats within one housing block. The family accommodation had a kitchenette, lounge dining room, and a bathroom with toilet. The decoration and furnishings were domestic in appearance. Two flats were checked in detail and three briefly along with the communal areas. All areas were clean, tidy, equipped and furnished above the required standard. With addition baby equipment, televisions and DVD player. Three parents said they were pleased with the accommodation, it gave them privacy, comfortable and well equipped. New Start Page 27

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both for shared activities and for private use, in those centres which do not

operate with fully self-contained flats. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 Adjacent to the family accommodation there is a housing block, which has the majority of the shared facilitates with offices, meeting rooms and play areas. The laundry is directly outside the family accommodation. There is a garden and separated outside play area which is secured with a fence and locked gate. One parent interviewed said she made regular use of the outside play area and laundry. The parents said the facilities were in working order. Staff said repairs were reported and promptly addressed. There is an allocated sleeping in room separate to the family accommodation. However, staff were sleeping in a room belonging to an other service which is not registered but close to the site (within the grounds). This was discussed with the manager on the day and subsequent to the inspection.

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Positive steps are taken to keep parents, children, staff and visitors safe from

risk from fire and other hazards. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The service had recently been registered and all relevant legislation in relation to the building met requirements e.g. gas lighting and heating. Policies and procedures were in place on health and safety related areas. In the main there were no hazards noted with the exception of window restrainers. On a landing area the inspector noted that a window opened to a significant width to pose a possible danger. This was discussed with the manager at the time of the inspection. Risk assessments were seen for individual family member but not for the building, environment and staff related areas. The fire records were checked and met the required standard. New Start Page 28

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Parents and children enjoy the stability of an efficiently run service and purchasers have confidence that they are getting value for money. • The service’s work with parents and children is continually adapted in the light of information about how it is operating. • There are adequate records of both the staff and families using the service.

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The registered person has the necessary ability to plan, budget and administer the

finances to ensure that the service is run on a sound financial basis. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 The Service had an allocated budget, business and financial plan for the service. The staff said the manager was approachable and gives advise, guidance and support when required. The conditions of registration were met on this inspection. The service had and continues to build relationships with the community. E.g. local service such as medical centres and the professionals, local community groups which some families join. New Start Page 29

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record the monitoring, and takes any required follow up or consequential action:

• each family’s placement plan and placement agreement; • deposit and issue of money and valuables given for safe keeping; • accidents and injuries; • illnesses, whether physical or mental; • complaints and their outcomes; • allegations or suspicions of abuse and their outcomes; • a record of visitors to the unit; • staff recruitment records and conduct of required checks for any newly • recruited staff; • statutory notifications of incidents; • disciplinary measures; • use of physical restraint; • risk assessments and subsequent action; • medication, treatment and first aid at the unit; • duty rosters as actually worked; • the unit’s Daily Log; • absences; • records of valuables and money held in safe keeping; • fire drills and tests of alarms, emergency lighting and fire equipment; • annual staff appraisals; and • minutes of staff meetings.

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record the monitoring, and takes any required follow up or consequential action:

Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The manager prepares a monthly monitoring report on the service, which covered the above headings. Although the individual records were not always signed by the manager to record the monitoring and comments on the follow up action and outcome. The service had a monthly visit from and independent person to monitor the conduct of the service and this was accompanied by a report.

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The service maintains satisfactory records about the staff, parents and

children involved with the service and major events affecting them. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 The records checked were orderly and well organised making information easily retrievable. The records were securely stored. In the main the staff register details were recorded with the exception of the average hours worked by individual members. Other records are reported on in other sections of the report. New Start Page 30

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D.1 Registered Person’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

accuracy of the report for the above inspection. We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Announced Inspection conducted on 14 th & 15 th June 2004 of inspection at New Start and any factual inaccuracies:

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D.1 Registered Person’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible

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D.1 Registered Person’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

The report is welcomed as constructive feedback on a new service. The company is committed to the training and development of its staff and we embrace the challenge of enabling staff to gain their NVQ in care. We continue to insist that the local authority social workers fulfil their responsibilities but making that happen can be very difficult. We are continuing to develop the service and will ensure that policies and procedures are updated accordingly. New Start Page 32

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to provider comments:

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to provider comments:

Comments were received from the provider YES

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to provider comments:

Provider comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report YES

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to provider comments:

NO Provider comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate

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Note:

In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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report:

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion YES

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion NO

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan NO

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Public reports

It should be noted that all CSCI inspection reports are public documents. New Start Page 33

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Date

Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

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