A SUPPORTED living service for residents with a range of mental health conditions has been rated 'Good' overall by inspectors carrying out their first visit to the site.

An adult social care inspector for the Care Quality Commission (CQC) examined all aspects of care and provision at Ashfield Court and Station Road facilities, operated by Sanctuary Supported Living's Tees Valley Care Services.

Up to 21 adults can be given support by the service to regain the skills and confidence needed for service users to live independently.

Inspections were carried out in December and January, with a full CQC report publishing the findings this month.

Within the report, CQC officials found the support living site to be safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Inspectors also spoke with one person using the service at the time, who concurred that their experience of the facility was good.

The report states: "The person told us they were very happy with the supported they received.

"Staff had worked very closely and sensitively with the person to support them experience a wider range of activities and improve their daily living skills.

"The person told us that the staff were friendly and made them feel at ease. Prior to moving to the service the staff had spent time with the person and their previous care team to find out how to best support them."

The report added: "Staff were well trained and knowledgeable about their roles and the care people needed. Staff received a

wide range of training including how to work with people living with mental health conditions."

The inspection was the site's first since last it was last assessed in 2013 before the facilities were acquired by Sanctuary Supported Living.

CQC announced the inspection would take place and spoke to staff and service users.

Inspectors added: "Staff effectively reported any safeguarding matters. The registered manager thoroughly investigated any concerns, and resolved these matters.

"All incidents were critically analysed, lessons were learnt and embedded into practice."

Sanctuary Supported Living's local service manager, Ian Davison, said: “We are thrilled with the result of our inspection.

"We work hard to ensure everyone feels safe and happy here.

“We will continue to work closely and sensitively with all of our residents to ensure that their views are used to inform any developments in the future."