A BIRKENHEAD-based respite service for adults with learning or physical disabilities has been rated 'good' by the by the Care Quality Commission following a recent inspection. 

Sanctuary Supported Living's Tollemache Road centre provides short-stay respite care, support and accommodation for up to 10 adults with disabilities and complex needs.

The service was commended for successfully adapting its infection and control procedures, to help keep both residents and staff safe throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

It noted the service protected residents with safe visiting and admittance procedures, including temperature checks and negative Covid tests.

The report also confirmed that staff were using PPE appropriately and undergoing regular testing, as well as supporting residents to comply with shielding and social distancing rules.

Wirral Globe:

Service user Emily playing basketball in Sanctuary Supported Living's Tollemache Road garden

The CQC inspector also stated that the registered service manager had implemented new systems to give added protection, including washing staff clothing on site to reduce the risk of transferring any contamination.

The whole staff team were found to be very knowledgeable about the procedures in place and this was reinforced through regular staff meetings and handover sessions.

To help reassure both clients and their families during such a difficult and stressful period, staff ensured that communication between the service and clients’ relatives was maintained with regular emails and letters.

Clients' individual care and support needs were also considered in relation to Covid, with staff using transparent face masks if needed.

Tollemache Road's local service manager, Nicola Larkin, said: "We are delighted to build upon our 'Good' rating with a positive hygiene and infection control inspection from the CQC, particularly in light of the challenging times we’ve experienced during the pandemic.

"The team here continue to go above and beyond to make Tollemache Road a safe and welcoming place for everyone."