Enter and view: Able2Achieve

In November 2018, Healthwatch Somerset carried out an Enter and View visit to Able2achieve, a service providing supported living, domiciliary care and work-preparation opportunities for people with learning disabilities. During the visit, Healthwatch observed activities across the service and spoke with six learners, seven staff members and members of the senior management team.

The visit found a welcoming and vibrant service where learners were supported to build confidence, independence and employment skills through placements in a café, bakery and charity shop. Learners spoke positively about their experiences, opportunities for progression and the support they received to pursue employment and independent living. Healthwatch highlighted the commitment and enthusiasm of staff and the service's strong focus on enabling people to make choices and participate in community life. Recommendations focused on maintaining the positive culture of support and continuing to develop partnerships with organisations that could create further opportunities for learners. The provider welcomed the findings and described the visit as a positive experience for both learners and staff.