The Meadows’ staff are trained in different aspects of learning disabilities to enable them to understand the needs of the individual. Through Knowledge of their routines, care and risk management plans can be developed that enable the individual to have as much choice and independence as possible; whilst monitoring for changes. Input from outside agencies is utilised as required, to enhance training, knowledge and understanding. All staff are trained in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), and the Company also has in-house trained PBS coaches.

Staff are trained in Learning Disabilities and functional concerns that may be associated with them; these may include communication and socialisation skills and understanding of personal care.

The home has enablement plans and facilitates each service user to learn and manage new skills with as much independence as is possible for them.

Staff are trained in Asperger’s: we provide a consistent staff team and approach to care, making sure we have knowledge and understanding of the individual. Where possible we also find staff who share an interest in the person’s preferred subject and plan their activities around it.

We are aware that when the person wants to be involved in everyday activities they may still be very awkward in social situations, either not mixing well with others, or doing so on their own terms; therefore, we take care to assess locations, as they would perhaps prefer quieter/less busy environments.

The Meadows’ staff are trained in Autism and assessing where on the spectrum an individual may be. Staff take a consistent approach to their care and their methods of working, being mindful of what they do and don’t say. Awareness of the individual’s ability or willingness to interact with others, make eye contact, or be alone, are key factors in our way of working.

Staff take time to use short, factual, sentences to assist understanding, and the staff team appreciate the need to apply a consistent approach when supporting the person.

All staff are trained in various aspects of mental health, including understanding how to construct/ follow care plans and the importance of knowing the individual. All staff trained in BILD Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), and complementary NAPPI (least restrictive intervention) training, enabling a personalised behaviour management plan to be developed; including distraction techniques, activities and engagement based on the knowledge and understanding of the individual’s personal needs. Input from outside agencies including psychiatry and psychology is used as required, both in training and development of care plans.

Staff have all been trained in first-aid and understanding of self-harm behaviours. Each service user has an individualised Support Plan and when appropriate a specific Risk Management Plans for self-injurious behaviours. The individual also has access to Psychology input as required.

Those Service Users who have a forensic background have regular meetings with their specialist who review them and their current situation. The specialist teams are also involved in providing advice to the Home and Staff regarding ongoing needs and any required changes to care plans.

The staff at The Meadows, have annual training on diabetes, this enables monitoring of diet and early recognition of any changes to linked health conditions or diabetes management to occur. They also have training on how to use the glucose monitoring machine, they are further supported by the local District Nurses, and the nurse educator team based in Devon.

The Meadows Staff are trained in the management, monitoring and understanding of importance of knowledge of the individual and their seizure patterns and triggers. Tight procedures and protocols are in place to follow should PRN medication be needed. They are supported by the Epilepsy nurse who regularly visits to review the service users and their support plans.

The home is supported by the local Hospice who provide free training that is very specific and personalised. They also provide personalised support and a care plans for those who need it at end of life.

Staff are trained to monitor blood pressure and be aware of signs indicating it is not under control; Staff are trained to protocols around Medication. Staff are aware of the need to assist an individual with orthostatic hypotension, giving them time to adjust when e.g. moving from lying to standing.

Staff are trained to monitor respiratory conditions and through knowledge of the person, identify if breathing patterns change and offer appropriate assistance. Medication training ensures correct protocols are followed, including those to follow should a breathing concern develop. Regular check-ups are part of the care planning process.

Outside agencies are involved in ensuring care requirements for those with physical disabilities are appropriately identified and managed. This includes the use of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Training in moving and handling and creation of up-to-date and relevant moving and handling care plans