AN ADULT care home for people with autism is celebrating after receiving full marks following its latest inspection.

Autism Wessex's Barnes Lane in Beaminster has been awarded a 'good' rating, following a visit from inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The home is one of eight residential homes managed by Autism Wessex which provides care for up to six people who have an autistic spectrum disorder.

Barnes Lane was marked as 'good' in all categories, achieving full marks for being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Mandy Gibson, registered manager of Barnes Lane, said: “We are delighted with this outcome from our recent CQC inspection and hope it goes some way to reflecting the compassion and dedication of our staff and the quality of the adult services provided by Autism Wessex.

"Many of our staff have worked with us for more than 10 years and I have been with the charity for more than 25 years now. This continuity means that as staff we know people's particular ways of communicating. We know the residents very well and understand how to meet people's needs and people's lifestyle choices to promote independence.”

She added: “We work tirelessly to give those who live with us the highest quality of care and make sure they feel at home at all times.

"We are delighted CQC recognise the quality we offer at Barnes Lane.”

Staff were praised by inspectors for safely managing medicines and records.

The report said: "People’s medicines were managed safely. Staff received appropriate training and understood the importance of safe administration and management of medicines.

"People were supported to maintain good health through regular access to health and social care professionals.

"People’s care records were detailed and personalised to meet their individual needs. Staff understood people’s needs and responded when needed. People were not able to be fully involved with their care plans, therefore family members supported staff to complete and review the care plans. People’s preferences were sought and respected."

Staff were also recognised for ensuring people's risk were "well documented, monitored and managed", making sure "people remained safe".

The report added: "People lived full and active lives and were supported to access local areas and activities.

"Staff had completed safeguarding training and had a good knowledge of what constituted abuse and how to report any concerns.

"Staff described the registered manager as being very approachable and supportive. Staff talked positively about their role. People who required intensive support, had one to one or two to one staffing at particular times. "

For more information about Autism Wessex, please visit autismwessex.org.uk