Working at Options Applegate House

Positive risk taking was driven throughout... excellent understanding of positive risk management... Incidents and accidents were closely monitored... senior management team and clinical teams were also involved... Medicines were securely maintained... MARs... accurately completed.

The culture of the service was honest, open and inclusive... Staff were well–motivated, worked well together as a team... 'It doesn't feel like a care home, it feels like a home.'

Sufficient staff were available to meet people's needs... Staffing levels were determined and provided in line with people's assessed needs, with most people receiving one to one levels of staff support throughout the day.

Staff training records... showed staff had access to... specialised training included; autism, epilepsy, medication, Makaton, least restrictive practice... foundation for knowledge level2 Diploma... Protecting Rights in a Caring Environment (PRICE).

The registered manager and deputy manager both spent time working alongside staff, providing a positive role model; consistent presence and promoting core values... Staff told us, '[Name] is the best manager I have ever had he is totally committed to person centred care...'

Each person... had a sensory profile assessment... innovative communication plans... PECS... 'inclusive initiative'... supported to have their own pet... community based activities... theatre visits... theme parks.