# Step Ahead Care Services

*Operated by Step Ahead Care Services Ltd.*

Step Ahead Care Services is a CQC-regulated home-care agency in Ilford.

## CQC Ratings

| Key question | Rating |
| --- | --- |
| Overall | Good |
| Safe | Good |
| Effective | Good |
| Caring | Good |
| Responsive | Good |
| Well-led | Good |

Rating published: 02/02/2023

## Practical info

- Postcode: IG1 4NH
- Registered manager: Nisha, Mehar
- Local authority: Redbridge
- Region: London
- City: Ilford
- Last CQC check: 02/Feb/2023 - 00:00

## Inspection findings

### Other

- Finding
  - Evidence: The provider worked effectively in partnership with health professionals including GPs, dentists and physiotherapists.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: People were supported to maintain independence, relationships and culturally relevant activities.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: People's communication needs were met using Makaton, pictures and body language interpretation.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: Robust governance systems including monthly spot checks, quality audits and feedback surveys.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: The registered manager promoted an open, inclusive culture and was accessible to staff and relatives.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: Staff received regular induction, training, supervision and appraisal supporting skill development.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: Care plans were detailed, pictorial, personalised and reviewed monthly with input from relatives.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: Staffing levels were sufficient, with dedicated 1:1 staff per person and a reliable agency backup.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: Medicines were managed safely with no gaps in administration records and correct stock counts.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- Finding
  - Evidence: People were safeguarded effectively; staff knew how to report concerns and escalate to the local authority or CQC if needed.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- **other** _(minor)_
  - Evidence: the environment was not homely because there were no pictures or sensory items on the walls in the communal areas or people's rooms.
  - Published: 2023-02-02
- **person_centred_care** _(minor)_
  - Evidence: the garden and kitchen were not accessible for wheelchair users due to limited turning space and a step down to the kitchen.
  - Published: 2023-02-02

## Source

Data published by the [Care Quality Commission](https://www.cqc.org.uk/) under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Canonical page: https://homecarecompass.co.uk/agency/1-11187898089

HomeCare Compass is an independent guide and is not affiliated with the CQC.