Working at Peppard House

People continued to be given their medicines safely by competent and appropriately trained staff. There were some issues with the complexity and quantity of medicine administration records and how 'when necessary' medicines were noted by the supplying pharmacy.

Staff told us they were very happy working in the service. They felt included in decision making and improving the service. Effective mentoring, supervision and support from the management team had developed a strong staff team.

Staffing ratios continued to meet people's diverse, assessed needs. Staffing ratios were calculated on a daily basis dependant on people's needs and scheduled activities. A minimum of four staff were available during waking hours.

Specialist training continued to be provided as and when required to meet any specific or diverse needs. For example understanding the autistic spectrum and epilepsy. Regular supervision, staff meetings and annual appraisals were used to enhance staff knowledge.

The registered manager was extremely experienced, respected and highly thought of by staff, families and other professionals. Staff described her as, 'Very supportive and approachable.' A professional said, 'She showed real knowledge of all her service users, and gave 110% at all times.'

Staff continued to offer people a wide variety of flexible and interesting activities that were meaningful to them as individuals. Individual activity plans were developed according to people's choices and needs. Examples include overseas trips, specialised communication systems and personalised holidays.