A DISABILITY care service previously rated as 'good' has been told it requires improvement following its latest inspection.

Dorset Learning Disability Service in Edward Road, Dorchester received a new rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following a planned one-day visit.

Inspectors said the service management and leadership was inconsistent, while the effectiveness of people's care and treatment "did not always achieve good outcomes."

The home was rated 'good' for safety, responsiveness and care, but it 'requires improvement' for its effectiveness and leadership.

A report said: "People's care was not always delivered in line with the Mental Capacity Act and restrictive practices were not being monitored effectively. There was a breach of regulation.

"Recording was not always adequate to ensure monitoring was effective. We received assurances from the registered manager and senior staff that this would be addressed.

"We will request an action plan for the provider to understand what they will do to improve the standards of

quality and safety."

The Edward Road care home, operated by care company Leonard Cheshire, provides personal care and accommodation for up to three people. It specialises in the care of people who have a learning disability.

In the inspection report the home, which had previously been rated 'good' in a 2016 inspection, was also praised for its work to ensure people using the service "could live as full a life as possible."

The report continued: "People were supported by staff who cared about them and worked together to meet people's individual needs. Staff felt well supported and happy in their roles. This helped to create a relaxed and happy

atmosphere for people to live in.

"People were supported by adequate numbers of trained and experienced staff to keep them safe and meet

their needs. The provider had a robust recruitment process which helped to minimise the risks of abuse to

people.

"Staff knew people well and were able to provide personalised support to people."

Inspectors will visit the home again as part of a re-inspection programme.