The Oaklea Trust (Durham & Northumberland)

“Date of assessment 14 August to 15 October 2024.”

“The Oaklea Trust (Durham and Northumberland) provides supported living for people with a disability and/or autism. There were 55 people using the service at the time of this assessment. A responsive assessment was carried out due to risks identified in relation to safeguarding and governance. The assessment commenced with a site visit on 14 August 2024 and ended on 15 October 2024. We found breaches of regulation relating to safeguarding, mental capacity and governance. Although we found examples of positive and proactive support delivered by caring and dedicated staff, we also found shortfalls. Processes were in place to manage safeguarding concerns, staff understood safeguarding and how to report this. However, there had been some safeguarding concerns raised and we could not be assured the provider had acted appropriately to reduce risk. We did not find evidence that people had been harmed, but there was the potential people were not kept safe. People were supported to live full lives and made everyday decisions about their care. However, where people lack capacity to make decisions, these must be made following the Mental Capacity Act 2005, associated Code of Practice, and in their best interests. We found that these decisions were not documented, and staff did not have knowledge or guidance around these. Some decisions had been made by or with other agencies, but outcomes were not recorded. Staff did not know if Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) were in place, or if these had been applied for, and what this meant in terms of people’s support. The provider had governance systems in place which supported improvement and development, but they had not identified issues with safeguarding, MCA, recruitment and inconsistencies in financial practices found at this assessment. We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.”