Working at Chard Manor

People were kept safe from avoidable harm because the service had a clear policy to support staff to recognise and report abuse... Staff had not always followed effective processes to provide the support people needed to take medicines safely. Significant improvements had been made and errors were now rare.

Staff told us they felt respected, supported and valued. Staff spoke openly about the care they provided and about the service more generally. There had been cultural issues within the team, but these had been addressed and the culture had improved.

Staff felt well supported. There was ongoing training and supervision for staff to make sure practice always followed best practice guidelines. The training in, and improved use of, sign language by staff had been particularly beneficial.

The service had been steadily improving since the current registered manager had been in post. The registered manager was visible in the service, approachable and took a genuine interest in people and what staff, family and other professionals had to say. They also worked 'on shift' to support people.

People were once again enjoying regular activities and interests outside of the home. Staff had worked with people to help re-establish routines and activities... People went swimming, sailing, shopping, bike riding, for walks and meals out.