27 February 2014
During a routine inspection
People who attended the centre to donate blood received a comprehensive assessment against a number of criteria to establish whether or not their donation would be accepted. One of the donors we spoke with said, 'I've been going through the forms and [the donor carer] made sure I had read the leaflet and checked my medical history since I last came here.'
People's welfare and comfort was assured during their visit to the centre. One person told us, 'I've been coming here for three and a half years and they always look after me while I am here.'
Appropriate guidance had been followed to ensure people were not exposed to the risk of infection when they donated their blood. The blood collection centre was clean and hygienic. One person told us, 'The whole building seems spotless."
Staff at the centre were supported by a regular and efficient training programme. Staff also received regular appraisals and supervision. One staff member said, 'I feel very supported, I can go to my manager with anything at any time.'
An effective governance process was in operation that enabled the management at the centre, and of the service nationally, to identify shortfalls and take action to improve. The provider took account of comments and complaints as well information arising from adverse incidents.