Setting

Living Springs

Barratts Coppice Farmhouse Bridgnorth Road Stourton Stourbridge West Midlands DY7 6QY

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Living Springs

Announced Inspection 08 March 2005 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. Living Springs Page 1

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Address

Barratts Coppice Farmhouse, Bridgnorth Road, Stourton, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY7 6QY

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Date of last inspection

Living Springs Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 08 March 2005 ID Code

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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 Living Springs.

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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. Living Springs Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. The property is a four bed roomed detached house set in its own spacious grounds. On the first for there are four bedrooms. The grounds provide ample space for a variety of suitable children play equipment

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INSPECTION VISITS

There is one bathroom with fitted shower and toilet. There is a second separate toilet and separate baby changing room provided on the first floor. There are three lounge areas and a large kitchen and separate dining area. A large family room is provided.

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INSPECTION VISITS

Living Springs aims to provide a safe supportive and caring environment in which the parenting abilities of families can be assessed and developed. Assessment is provided in accordance with the Framework for Assessment of Children in Need and their Families’. With emphasis upon Parenting Capacity.

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INSPECTION VISITS

In addition to residential assessments the establishment also undertakes children and family assessments for none resident persons referred by Social Services Departments. Living Springs 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.)

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

This was the first inspection since registration. Areas for improvement are identified in the requirements of the report. The most immediate of these related to a specific piece of essential information not being available on admission and fire risk assessment practices. Both of these matters were in a context of other parts of admission and fire safety systems being in established. At the end of the inspection the care manager dealt immediately with both of these matters.

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

The care manager had identified a number of areas for further improving the service including a more structured parenting course. Developments in this area had already commenced. Further developments include methods to seek the views of families, increase in child protection training and development of a waiting area for visitors.

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

The accommodation is spacious and fitted with good quality furnishings and fittings. The standard of accommodation reflected the aims of the establishment i.e. to provide a relaxing environment in which children and families can be assessed. To this end thought had been given to the decoration and design of the accommodation, which provided for both parents and children’s needs. The overall impression was of a good standard of accommodation. It was noted during the inspection that there was a need for further storage space. This tended to detract from what was trying to be achieved by management of the service. The overall impression was of a safe environment although some matters relating to health and safety were identified in the report and are reflected in the requirements of the report.

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

There were suitable care management systems in place, including such systems as admission, assessment, care planning, recruitment and supervision. Adequate staffing was provided who demonstrated knowledge of service users needs and critical areas related to their role eg. assessment methods. Some difficulties had been experienced over the availability of staffing at weekends though shifts had always been covered including by the care manager when required. There were very good level of administrative support for the management of the establishment

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

Service users expressed positive comments about the service, which was provided. Service users confirmed that they had been informed about their rights whilst at the establishment and were fully involved in the assessment process. Service users had a good understanding of the purpose of their placement and the need to cooperate with staff and management of the establishment. Discussion with service users and observations during the inspection showed skilful methods of working by staff with service users which ensured very close observation for purposes of assessment whilst maintaining a positive working relationship. Living Springs Page 7 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

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

compliance with the above requirements. Living Springs Page 8

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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 Staffing arrangements are adequate to meet the needs of families residing in the centre

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Comments

Condition Compliance YES Night staffing levels of one waking night or sleeping in person are maintained dependent upon the assessed needs of families

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Comments

Condition Compliance YES Families with identified need referred by social services (families excluded form placement are as identified in conditions of registration)

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Comments

Condition Compliance YES Parents who are known to be suffering form mental ill health will not be accommodated. If there had been a history of mental illness then the parents must be declared mentally well enough to undertake the assessment by a relevant qualified medical practitioner

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Comments

Lead Inspector George Plant Signature George Plant Date 25 April 2005 Living Springs Page 9

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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. The following timescales are from the date of the inspection

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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 13 (3) (b) RFC11 To ensure that information is made available from social services relating to one resident. immediate

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 11(4) (c) RFC11 To put in place a risk assessment on the basis of information received from social services relating to one resident. Staff should be made aware of any risk subject to a risk assessment immediate

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3 11(4) (a) RFC20 To ensure that hot water in the bath operates at a safe temperature 15/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

4 10 (1)(a) RFC20 To ensure that the water in the baby room is suitably warm immediate

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

5 11(4)(a) RFC22 To fit wardrobe restraints in the interests of children’s safety 15/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

6 11(4)(a) RFC19 To provide suitable storage space and ensure that communal areas are not used for storage 31/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

7 23(1) RFC24 The care manager should put in place arrangements for monitoring the operation of the establishment. 31/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

8 17(5)(a) RFC17 To ensure effective supervision of staff 8/4/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

9 11(4)9A) RFC19 To ensure that children do not access the cellar play area via the steep set of stairs from the house. Children should use the conservatory entrance and be accompanied by an adult at all times immediate Living Springs Page 10 10 10(1)(a) RFC21 To provide suitable additional heating in the cellar play area 31/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

11 22 (1) (a) RFC22 To put in place a fire risk assessment. 15/3/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

12 10(1) (a) RFC12 Vulnerable adults procedures should be established and made available to staff. 11/4/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

13 11 (4) (a) RFC22 To provide a lock on residents food cupboard in the kitchen 15/3/05

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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

* Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 3-letter prefix e.g. RFC10 refers to Standard 10. Living Springs Page 11

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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 YES • Activities YES ‘Tracking’ care and support YES Group discussion with service users YES 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 NO Views of local social services department (child protection) YES Visiting Professionals’ feedback NO Tour of Premises YES Inspection of policies YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 8/3/05 Time of Inspection 1200 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 8 Number of Inspector Days 1 Living Springs Page 12 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. Living Springs Page 13

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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? 3 A statement of purpose was established which was consistent with requirements laid out in the regulations. This was further summarised and made available to all service users. The statement of purpose was accessible to staff of the establishment. The service user guide as written in plain English. The inspector did not on this occasion explore how service users with literacy problems may have access to the information in other formats.

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

purchaser, and handled with sensitivity and care. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 There were clear expectations made known to service users regarding the service at the establishment and what they could expect and what was expected of them. Service users care plans was based upon information received at the point of referral. The assessment was clearly focused upon parenting skill and capacity. This was evident from discussion with staff, observations of the inspector, and assessment care planning documentation. There was evidence from discharged service users records of liaison with social services at the point of discharge. The overall impression was of a well-practiced admission / discharge process.

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

The lack of information regarding risk provided by social services is dealt with later in the report. This information should have been available on admission and followed up by the establishment prior to the inspection. This matter was addressed immediately following the inspection by the care manager. Living Springs Page 14

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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? 3 There was a placement plan and placement agreement in place, which had been signed by all parties including service users. The placement plan took account of contact arrangements and methods of assessment used.

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

The assessment model was based upon Every Child Matters and assessment focused upon Parenting capacity taking account of Basic care; safety; Emotional warmth; stimulation; Boundaries/ guidance; and stability.

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

Service users were provided with a link worker. All staff had been made aware of the assessment model and had received appropriate training. A staff ratio per family of 1:1 was provided to promote good assessment practices.

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

A very detailed written account was made by staff of observations as part of the assessment process. This culminated in evidence based reports for court on the outcome of the assessments. The assessment and court reporting process was overseen by the manager for the establishment. A sample of court reports was seen which was relevant and evidence based.

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

There were weekly meetings held to review progress to which significant others were invited which was an integral part of the ongoing assessment process.

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

The overall impression was of a well thought out and practiced assessment process.

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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? 3 Arrangements were established with the local health centre to provide services to parents and their children using the service. The records showed regular attendance by the health visitor to provide for the health care needs of the infant resident at the home.

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

No medication was prescribed. However consent was provided by parents in relation to any administration of any mediation and for first aid if required.

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

Baby sitting arrangements were in place to allow parents to develop personal relationships or pursue personal interests

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

access. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 Arrangements were in place for parents to access their records with the supervision of staff. Records were held securely in locked cabinets. Detailed records were held by staff relating to the assessment process. Living Springs 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 were involved in the assessment process. Their views were listened to and taken account of. Examples of the respect of staff to the views of parents as service users was given in discussion with two service users during the inspection.

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

Parents were involved in weekly progress meetings where their views were taken account of. There were clear complaint procedures in place made available to service users.

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

There were no instances of where the service had been withdrawn noted during the inspection. Living Springs Page 18

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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 There was evidence from discussion with staff of the establishment, inspection of policy / procedures and discussions with staff regarding arrangements which ensured the safety of the child and which set agreed boundaries with children and users of the service.

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

All prospective users of the service were informed of the house rules. Conditions of residence also related to the need for the safety and welfare of children according to individual circumstances. Restrictions e.g. when the child would be allowed to sleep in the parents rooms was discussed and agreed with parents.

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

Service users spoke of the positive relationships that they had with staff of the establishment. Although the nature of the staff role may be intrusive upon family life the manner in which they undertook the role was both valued and respected. Living Springs Page 19

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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? 3 Discussion took place during the inspection regarding visits by other family members. These would only be as part of the placement plan agreement. There were no such circumstances evident at the time of the inspection. At the time of the inspection visits by other family members were not occurring due to the process of assessment, confidentiality and safety.

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

The service users guide provided to service users on admission makes clear rules on visiting by persons other than visits by professionals e.g. times of visits, where visits can take place and process of agreement. The service users guide further provides a framework of what is considered unacceptable behaviour by any persons at the establishment.

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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 A policy relating to confidentiality was established. Staff and management of the service were aware of the need to maintain confidentiality. A policy was available relating to access to records which could be seen by parents with a staff member present.

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

A monitoring device was situated in bedrooms and lounges. The care manager confirmed that this was disconnected and had been used in previous years for the purpose of monitoring young babies. Given that this is no longer of any practical use it should be removed. Its presence does not promote standards relating to privacy. Living Springs Page 20

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

progress. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 Three was a complaints procedure in place. Service users were familiar with the complaints procedure. The service user guide addressed arrangements for dealing with complaints. Around the establishment was information available to service user to make a complaints

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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? 2 A policy / procedure was in place providing a framework for child protection. The procedure covered all essential areas relating to action to be taken in the event of disclosure. All staff had received training relating to child protection.

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

Discussion took place regarding confirmation of procedures as consistent with the ACPC procedures of the area in which the establishment is situated. The care manager assured the inspector that whilst procedures had not been validated by the Staffordshire Social services they had been sent to Dudley social services that were part of the regional child protection consortium.

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

There were no circumstances at the time of the inspection, which met a threshold for concerns regarding the safety or welfare of children.

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

The inspector was concerned about the lack of risk assessment and information regarding historical concerns of a confidential nature which potentially affect assessment and safety of children. This information should have been provided by social service and pursued by the establishment. The care manger immediately following the inspection pursued this matter and wrote to the inspector to confirm that this matter had now been addressed. It should be noted that the home had taken account of other known risks and provided a high level of supervision. The inspector also followed this matter up with the establishment who informed him that verbal information had been given by social services. This was not known to the wider staff team..

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

Assessment practices were well established in other areas and were well developed. The establishment has a professional understanding of child protection matters. The inspector’s opinion is that this shortfall is part of a systems failure in this instance and should have been picked up by quality control checks, supervision or key staff members in their work with service users. This matter is not consistent with National Minimum Standards 11.6. Living Springs Page 22

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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? 1 Discussion took pace about the need to consider the need for protection of adult service users as vulnerable adults. The establishment had focused upon the safety of children. There was a need to consider the status of some service users who may be admitted to the service e.g. mental health of service users and levels of understanding and their need for protection.

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

The establishment should contact Staffordshire Social Services and obtain a copy of the local vulnerable adult procedures. Training will be needed for staff in understanding this new role. Living Springs Page 23

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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 care manger was aware of their responsibilities for notification. There had been no notifications over the past twelve months.

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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. 0

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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. Living Springs Page 24

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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? 3 There 11 staff that had either completed NVQ training or were in the process of completion. Further staff had qualifications in social work, the NNEB, or the Certificate in health and Social Care. Further staff also had previous training / experience in education. The overall impression was of a staff team with the relevant qualifications and with appropriate levels of skill in meeting the need of service users.

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

Staff were provided with the opportunity for staff handovers

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

Arrangements were n place for delegation of responsibilities to a deputy manager

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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? 2 A sample of four staff records were inspected. The records showed CRB clearance, references, and application form, and record of interview. There was clear a system in place for the recruitment and appropriate selection of staff. The observations of the inspector during the inspection were of a well chosen staff with an intelligent approach to their work. However the following observations were made from records.

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

CRB clearance were obtained for all staff . However the records showed that two staff had started before the CRB was received. The inspector was assured that new starters in such circumstances would be shadowed. However they were not supernumerary and therefore would be included as full staff members. The care manager has provided evidence that the starting dates of the above employees was wrongly recorded and therefore staff did have a CRB clearance on commencing employment

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

In one instances there was no reference from the staff member’s last employer.

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

In two instances there was no record of documentary proof of qualifications. Living Springs Page 26

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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 There were 28 staff employed as Family Workers inclusive of the care manager. Staff were employed as both part time and full time. Further staff hours (6 staff) were provided for administrative support. The staff hours provided for both day and residential services. The turnover of staff was not inspected on this occasion and will be addressed at future inspections.

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

The residential services were provided with two staff on duty 24 hours with two staff sleeping in at night. Provision was made for waking night staff should this be required. In addition the care manager was available. One staff member was deployed at all times to work with a family as part of the assessment process. There were some difficulties in covering weekend dates although staffing levels were maintained. The management team including the care manager would cover shifts at weekend when required. The care manager had made arrangements through recruitment for the weekend situation to be addressed.

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

children and young people or equivalent qualification. 50% %

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

and supported. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 2 A system of supervision was established. However it was noted from records of supervision and discussion with the care manager and staff that supervision was not routinely undertaken with staff in accordance with National Minimum Standards. All staff had access to a range of policy / procedures of the establishment. Living Springs Page 27

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

service. Key findings/Evidence Standard met? 3 This standard was not fully inspected against National Minimum Standards. However there was evidence that key areas of training was provided in relation to staff. These include:

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

First aid Assessment Heath and safety Fire practices Child protection Childcare practices.

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

In accordance with National Minimum Standards the establishment also provide for staff meetings. Staff appraisals. Staff all had access to the policy / procedure which took account of public disclosure, conduct of staff e.g. smoking. Provision was made for staff to receive job descriptions and supervision although the improvements were needed in relation to the latter. Living Springs Page 28

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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? 2 The accommodation was suitable for the purpose of the establishment. It provided for private space for residents and further space for those families attending during the day. There was choice of communal areas. The kitchen was well equipped providing for self-catering by families. The overall impression was of a very good standard of accommodation providing for space and choice of areas. All areas were well furnished. Furnishings were suitably fire retardant.

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

There was a good standard of decoration throughout.

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

A play area was situated in the cellar. This was accessed via two sets of steps. The steps leading from the house were steep and narrow and in the inspectors opinion unsuitable for children. Discussion took place about the need to ensure that children accessed the play area via the steps leading from the conservatory. There was one small heater in the cellar which did not provide sufficient warmth.

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

There was a need for additional storage areas. Items of furniture were stored in communal areas and detracted from what was otherwise a very good standard of accommodation. An example of this was a large separate family room equipped with separate kitchen area and en-suite shower and toilet. The kitchen and en-suite areas were filled with items to be stored.

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

Discussion took place with the care manager about the possibility of utilising half the cellar area by building a stud partition wall across its middle, which would also take account of the lists on the stairs leading to the house referred to above. The fire officer would need to be consulted about such alterations to ensure adequate fire safety. Living Springs Page 29

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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? 3 Bedrooms were spacious and well equipped with all the required furnishings as outlined in National Minimum Standards.

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

Bathrooms were accessible and sufficient for the needs of families in residence. Baths were fitted with thermostatic valves. The hot water in the bathroom was tested and found to be excessively hot. The thermostatic valves should be serviced and hot water routinely tested to ensure that they operate at a safe temperature.

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

The water in the baby changing room was too cold. Parents refered to having to leave the baby (with staff attendance) to go to the bathroom next door for the water. This is not satisfactory.

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

There were separate staff toilet facilities.

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

Young babies slept with staff supervision in the staff bedrooms, which was a part of a risk management agreed with social services.

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

There were monitoring aids fitted in bedrooms, which were no longer in use. These should be removed as they do not promote standards of privacy. Living Springs Page 30

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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 There was a choice of well-furnished lounges for parents and children. There was a seperate laundry area. The kitchen provided for self-catering by families. A covered smoking area was provided outside of the building. The grounds provided safe play areas for children with a large number of items of play equipment fitted e.g. adventure play areas, trampoline, etc. The house was provided with appropriate play equipment for children.

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

The heating and lighting was sufficient other than the heating in the cellar area used as a play area. All areas of the establishment were kept very clean.

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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 This standard was not fully inspected against National Minimum Standards and will be further addressed at forthcoming inspections

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

None of the families or children resident were prescribed medication. A suitable cabinet and system of administration was in place for those families who in future may need assistance with the administration of medication.

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

There was a very good system of security checks in place, which was well practice and documented by staff.

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

Staff had received training in food hygiene. Fire practices took pace every three months. Servicing arrangements were in place for fire equipment and emergency lighting. There was a need to complete a fire risk assessment. Immediately following the inspection the care manager took advice from the fire officer and completed a fire risk assessment. Outstanding work on the risk assessment included checking the closure of fire doors in their rebates

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

Discussion took place about the need to retain wardrobes and storage units in bedrooms and communal areas due to the potential risk to children.

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

Discussion took place about the need to provide a lock for the food cupboard used by a family and their child. The kitchen is used by other families attending for the day. It was known that persons would go into the cupboard. Particularly given that the babies food is stored in this it would be safer to make this secure. Living Springs Page 31

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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 This standard was not fully inspected.

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

An equal opportunities policy was available in the establishment. There was good administrative support provided.

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

The care manager provided in the inspector’s opinion good leadership of the staff team. She was well qualified experienced and was evidently supportive of the staff team. The care manager oversaw important aspects of the establishments work e.g. assessment reports. Although there are a number of matters raised during the inspection, which should be addressed, the overall impression was of a quality service provided under the leadership of the care manger. The care manger was seeking to invest in improvements to the service e.g. extension and further child protection training. Living Springs Page 32

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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? 1 Discussion took place about the need to put in place arrangements for the routine monitoring of records as refereed to in National Minimum Standards. The care manager had arranged for independent persons to undertake monitoring visits. These were not being checked monthly as intended. There were matters raised during the inspection which were preventable should they be subject to more systematic quality assurance checks. The care manager should consider methods of QA to further improve the quality of the service Living Springs Page 33

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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? 3 The length of time which records were maintained was not inspected

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The service maintains satisfactory records about the staff, parents and

Adequate records were maintained for the operation of the establishment and as required under regulations. Not all records could be seen during the inspection. However the following areas of records were inspected:

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The service maintains satisfactory records about the staff, parents and

Staff personnel records Staffing of the establishment Placement plans Health and safety records Policy / procedures. Security checks by the home Living Springs Page 34

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C.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 Inspection conducted on 08 March 2005 and any factual inaccuracies:

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

We are working on the best way to include provider responses in the published report. In the meantime responses recieved are available on request. Living Springs Page 35

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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

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to provider comments:

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

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan

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Public reports

It should be noted that all CSCI inspection reports are public documents. Living Springs Page 36

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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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Living Springs / 08 March 2005

Commission for Social Care Inspection 33 Greycoat Street London SW1P 2QF

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Living Springs / 08 March 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Living Springs / 08 March 2005

National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 www.csci.org.uk

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Living Springs / 08 March 2005

S0000047184.V213654.R01 © This report may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection

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Living Springs / 08 March 2005

The paper used in this document is supplied from a sustainable source

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