Working at Cambian Whinfell Shap Road

Keeping people safe had a high profile... Medicines were safely managed and robust checks... open culture in which all safety concerns raised were highly valued... positive risk-taking well-managed.

Staff were motivated and proud of the success and improvements they had made... staff had been inspired and motivated... 'the whole staff team is buzzing with ideas'... 'This is the best care job I've ever had'.

Staffing levels were flexible and in numbers that supported people to live independent lives of their choosing. The high staffing ratio allowed people to have quality time with their support worker.

Staff were given opportunities for learning, development and reflective practice... specialist autism training including intensive interaction, communication technologies, emotional regulation programmes, access to clinical team of OTs, physios, behaviour and speech therapists.

The registered manager demonstrated a strong and supportive leadership style, seeking feedback to further improve the care and support provided. Staff said they were listened to, were encouraged to try out new ideas and this led to a very rewarding environment to work in.

Nationally recognised best practice tools... use of technology, communication aids, social stories, comic strips, Seesaw app, intensive interaction, mirroring techniques, community volunteering, work placements, camping trips, fun runs, fundraising events with measurable outcomes like £900 raised.