Quality Checker Report: Home Farm Trust

Healthwatch Wiltshire and Wiltshire People First carried out a Quality Checker visit to the Home Farm Trust (HFT) service at Furlong Close, Rowde, on 17 September 2015. The service provided residential care and supported living for approximately 30 adults with learning disabilities across four residential bungalows and two supported-living bungalows. During the visit, the quality checkers spoke with residents and staff and observed the environment and support provided. 

The visiting team found the service to be accessible and well designed for people with learning disabilities. The site was purpose-built with level access throughout, and information such as activity schedules, menus, fire evacuation plans, and household chores was displayed using both pictures and words to make it easier to understand. However, the quality checkers noted that some internal doors were heavy and could be difficult to open for people using walkers or wheelchairs. 

Staff were described as welcoming, friendly, and respectful. They demonstrated an understanding of residents’ needs and respected individual choices, including when residents preferred not to speak with visitors. The atmosphere was positive, and residents appeared comfortable with staff and confident in expressing their preferences.

Residents reported having significant choice and control over their lives. They participated in monthly house meetings where they helped decide menus, activities, and outings. Residents were able to choose when to join in with cooking, decide their own bedtimes, and select activities that interested them. Examples of activities mentioned included emailing, clay work, Tai Chi, bingo, gardening, woodwork, craft projects, and attendance at local clubs and courses. 

The report found strong evidence of independence being encouraged. Residents were supported to carry out household tasks such as putting shopping away and preparing breakfast. Some residents were living in the newer supported-living bungalows, providing greater independence while still having access to support when required. 

Residents spoke very positively about the service and staff. Comments included “All staff are friendly,” “I like everything,” “I like living with my friends,” and “Good staff.” These responses suggested that residents were happy with both the care they received and their living environment. 

The quality checkers highlighted a number of examples of good practice. The homes displayed photographs of residents with friends and family, helping to create a homely atmosphere. Residents had access to two minibuses for outings, key workers who provided individual support, and opportunities to take holidays organised by HFT. The spacious grounds, gardens, and seating areas also gave residents opportunities to spend time outdoors. 

Overall, the report concluded that Home Farm Trust was a good place to live, particularly for people who wanted access to a wide variety of activities, courses, and opportunities for independence. The quality checkers felt that residents had genuine choice over how they spent their time and that the service successfully promoted both independence and personal wellbeing.

The only recommendation made was to improve accessibility by addressing the difficulty of opening some of the heavier doors, particularly for people with mobility impairments. Otherwise, the report identified no significant concerns about the quality of care or support provided