Penniston Barn

The following is CQC's published account of its assessment, published 31 July 2026. References to “we” mean CQC. It describes findings at that time.

Date of assessment: 26 May 2026 to 30 June 2026.

Penniston Barn is a care home providing accommodation and personal care to people with a learning disability and autistic people. At the time of our assessment, 6 people were living at the service.

We assessed the service against 'Right support, right care, right culture' guidance to make judgements about whether the provider guaranteed people with a learning disability and autistic people respect, equality, dignity, choices, independence and good access to local communities that most people take for granted.

Risks associated with the environment, medicines management and premises maintenance had not always been effectively identified, assessed or mitigated. Governance systems and provider oversight had not been sufficiently effective in identifying and addressing concerns, including issues relating to environmental safety, infection prevention and control, medicines storage and aspects of fire safety. We also found inconsistencies within care planning documentation and limited evidence that incidents and events were routinely analysed to identify trends, learning and opportunities for improvement.

Records did not consistently demonstrate that people's rights, choices and preferences had been fully considered when planning and reviewing care. Opportunities to plan for future care needs and life events had also not always been explored.

However, people received kind and compassionate support from staff who knew them well. Staff demonstrated a good understanding of people's individual needs, communication styles and behaviours and were able to respond proactively to reduce distress and promote wellbeing.

People were supported to develop independence, maintain important life skills and participate in activities that were meaningful to them. They were encouraged to engage in cooking, shopping, gardening, household tasks and a wide range of community-based activities. Staff worked alongside health and social care professionals to support people's wellbeing and positive outcomes.

We identified 2 breaches of the legal regulations in relation to safe environments and governance.

In instances where CQC has begun a process of regulatory action, we may publish this information on our website after any representations and/or appeals have been concluded, if the action has been taken forward.