Sheffield Care Provider Earns Outstanding Ratings at First CQC Inspection

Seven Steps Support Limited has received outstanding ratings for its supported living and home care services in Sheffield following its first inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in September 2026.

The provider supports autistic people and people with a learning disability in their own homes, helping them live as independently as possible.

CQC rated the supported living service outstanding for effectiveness, caring, responsiveness and leadership, with a good rating for safety. The home care service received outstanding ratings for caring and leadership, while safety, effectiveness and responsiveness were rated good.

Inspectors found that staff provided person-centred support, adapting their communication to individual needs to help people express themselves and exercise greater choice and control over their daily lives. Staff also shared relevant information with other services promptly, helping health professionals understand people’s needs, preferences and risks.

The inspection highlighted sensitive support for people experiencing bereavement, including opportunities to attend funerals where they wished. Staff also helped people manage anxiety through mindfulness techniques, guided breathing exercises and relaxation sessions using calming music.

People and relatives felt confident raising concerns, describing managers as approachable and responsive. Staff told CQC they felt well supported and motivated, with leaders prioritising their wellbeing to help deliver compassionate, high-quality care.

Victoria Marsden, CQC’s deputy director of adult social care in the north region, highlighted the provider’s person-centred approach, compassionate staff and support for people to achieve their goals. One example involved helping a person work with a local university to share their experience of living with a learning disability, raise awareness and contribute to the community while building confidence.

CQC assessed the services against its Right support, right care, right culture guidance, which focuses on ensuring autistic people and people with a learning disability receive respectful, dignified support that promotes equality, choice, independence and community participation.

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