A SUPPORTED living service for people with learning disabilities and autistic people in Cumbria has been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following improvements identified by inspectors.
Turning Point's Cumbria Learning Disabilities Supported Living service, which supports 21 people across the county, was assessed between May and June 2026, with the report published on August 11.
The service, based in Carlisle, received a 'good' rating overall, and in the categories of Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led.
CQC said its assessment focused on the personal care and support people receive, rather than the accommodation they live in.
Inspectors carried out the assessment to follow up on concerns raised during a previous inspection, particularly around safety and leadership. They found that improvements had been made.
The report said there were enough suitably recruited staff who were kind, caring and appropriately trained, while medicines were well managed and people's nutritional needs were supported.
Inspectors praised the service for encouraging people to make their own choices, pursue their interests and develop greater independence.
One person using the service told inspectors: "Staff are very caring. The first thing they say to me in the morning is, 'What would you like to do? It's your choice'."
Relatives also spoke positively about the support provided. One said: "There are no safety concerns that I can think of. Staff do their best."
Relatives spoke positively about the kindness, patience and dedication of staff. Most relatives had built strong, trusting relationships with staff and worked together to help people enjoy a good quality of life.
The report noted some staff had raised concerns about inconsistencies in staffing levels and communication. However, inspectors said these issues had been recognised by management and were being addressed, with evidence of ongoing improvement.
Some relatives also expressed concerns about the use of agency staff, although the CQC found their use had reduced and said the registered manager was continuing to work with families to address concerns.
Inspectors found staff felt supported and said things had improved since the current registered manager took over.
The report added that leaders listened to feedback and took action to improve the service, while a programme of quality assurance checks helped ensure care remained safe and effective.
Share