Heathcotes (Larkrise), a care home in the London borough of Sutton, has been rated Outstanding overall by the Care Quality Commission. Previously it was rated Good.
Heathcotes was rated Outstanding for being effective and responsive. It was rated Good for being safe, caring and well-led, following an inspection in October 2019.
The home provides accommodation for up to seven people with autism, some of whom have additional learning disabilities.
The environment was unique and creatively supported people's individual needs and preferences. The use of space was exceptional and actively promoted people's independence and wellbeing.
Staff were able to describe each person's preferences and how the service had been adapted to meet their needs. For example, a fully equipped sensory room allowed people to experience the lighting, smells and textures of their choice.
The registered manager made sure they involved everyone in how the environment was designed. For example, a sensory board gave people the opportunity to learn about different textures and feelings and a fish tank was purchased when one person expressed they wanted the responsibility and enjoyment of looking after a pet.
Social workers said staff worked exceptionally well with them to support people. They said: "The staff have been proactive and made suggestions for treatment that are above and beyond their expertise as support workers but were agreed by the GP and have worked marvellously for people using the service."
People were supported to be as independent as possible with their choice and preparation of food. Staff told us people were encouraged to be involved in food preparation and CQC saw people helping in the kitchen during the inspection. A relative spoke of how their family member liked to make their own sandwiches for lunch and was encouraged to help themselves to healthy snacks.
People received exceptionally personalised care. Staff thought carefully about how to develop people's individual skills to help them cope effectively with new challenges. This included a personalised approach by staff to encourage people to learn new skills in subjects such as, English, maths, geography and cooking.
One relative spoke about the improvements they had seen in their family member since using the service They described how their relative's confidence had grown, the new skills they had learnt and how they had seen a reduction in challenging behaviour.
Another relative described the improvements they had seen and how their family member was now calmer and able to visit them at home. They said: "My family member has completely changed since he has been there. The staff are wonderful, and he is very happy."
Management actively encouraged positive relationships between people and those who mattered to them. They arranged activities with family members to help build a sense of community. Examples included, countryside family walks, fundraising and social events.
Alison Murray, Head of Adult Social Care inspection in London said: “Heathcotes (Larkrise) is a service that puts people first. Relatives spoke highly of the registered manager and how committed staff were to provide high-quality care. Relatives said they would absolutely recommend the service to other people.
“At CQC’s last inspection we rated the service as Good overall, and it is always pleasing to see providers reach the next level with an Outstanding rating. Congratulations to the staff and management of Heathcote (Larkrise).”
You can read the report in full when it is published on CQC’s website at www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-3012597847
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