Wallasey accommodation service awarded top marks
Carr-Gomm’s supported housing service in Wallasey, Merseyside was awarded five A grades following a Supporting People Service Review in spring 2009.
An ‘A’ grade is given when a service demonstrates a commitment to excellence and strives to be a leader in its field.
The comprehensive review examined all aspects of support evidenced by clients’ support plans, policy and procedures in place, and interviews with staff and clients.
The report said: “It is apparent that service users are firmly at the centre of the decision making process that may impact on their home or support... the service delivery is well advanced with many areas of good practice and is continually improving, in particular with client involvement and empowerment. On a national level, clients are encouraged to become involved in various methods of shaping service delivery, and, at a local level, there is a similar commitment.”
The report goes on to say: “... staff should be commended for the encouragement that is given to those service users who have shown an interest in a particular hobby, which, as a direct result has advanced their own personal development i.e. confidence, self worth etc."
Kath Hughes, operations manager, Carr-Gomm said: “We are delighted with the assessment. We strive to help and support clients achieve their goals, move forward in their lives and thrive in the local community. I’d like to say a big thank you to Pauline McDowell who manages the service and our fantastic project staff, Ian Blakeley and Sharron Gee. They give 110% every day – their commitment to clients and the scheme is the main reason for this result."
The service received five ‘A’ grades under the new Quality Assessment Framework which assesses the quality of support services in five core areas:
- Support planning, risk and needs assessment
- Security, health and safety
- Safeguarding and protection from abuse of vulnerable adults and children
- Fair access, diversity and inclusion
- Client involvement and empowerment
Carr-Gomm is contracted to run two separate services on behalf of Wirral Council:
1) Accommodation based service for eight people with mental health issues
2) Floating Support Service for 36 people with low to medium support needs.
