Complaint Investigation Report

Client interviews were conducted on 03/23/2023, starting at 02:30 p.m., which revealed that most staff are good, professional, and understanding.

Client interviews indicated that S1, on various occasions, does not yell at clients, but talks to clients in a manner that is degrading, without dignity and respect. Additionally, clients added that clients feel unsupportive and belittled by S1 and their actions on a daily basis. Clients indicated there have been instances where clients request food/snacks or request their Personal and Incidental funds (P&I) for shopping, yet S1 degrades client for the additional food or funds. That same day, starting at 03:40 p.m. staff interviews were conducted confirming what clients stated. Additionally, staff interviews added that because of S1 not treating the clients with respect and dignity, clients get triggered, which causes them to have ongoing, challenging behaviors. Also, staff interviews stated that Administrator Brandy Maynard is aware of S1’s way of speaking to clients, as it has been brought up to the Administrator attention. Lastly, staff interviews stated that although S1 is a hard-working staff member, S1 would benefit from additional training on dignity, respect and how to communicate with clients that present with varying needs. Interview with Administrator Brandy Maynard, at 04:25 p.m., revealed that they are unaware of S1 behaviors as staff or clients have not brought it up to the Administrator attention.

That same day, on 03/23/2023, and on an annual visit on 05/04/2023, LPA Ascencio overheard S1 not treating client with dignity and respect during various interactions. S1’s tone in speaking with clients was very curt and discourteous, and S1 would regularly interrupt clients when they were making requests to S1. Although interviews indicated that S1 does not yell at clients, S1’s way of speaking to clients has been observed by clients and staff as belitting, causing an increase in behaviors that could have been avoided. Thus, based on evidence gathered through the investigation, there is enough evidence to support the claim that staff do not treat clients with dignity and respect. This allegation is substantiated

Pursuant to Title 22, CA Code of Regulations, the following deficiencies were cited (refer to LIC 9099-D).

Exit interview and report reviewed with the Administrator . A copy of the report and appeal rights were issued.