Newowner’svow on under-fire care homestandards
Health Reporter THE owner of a closure-threatened care home has pledged to turn it around and safeguard dozens of jobs.
Drumpellier Lodge in Bargeddie, North Lanarkshire, has been banned from admitting new residents following a series of damning Care Inspectorate reports where it was given an ‘unsatisfactory’ grade 1 rating.
The home was given a list of requirements including improving staff training and the range of “meaningful’ activities offered to residents.
Local businessman and new owner Mandir Singh says he is working closely with the council and the Care Inspectorate to drive up standards and safeguard the jobs of 40 employees.
North Lanarkshire Council said there was evidence of “significant improvement.”
Mr Singh said: “I took over the running of the home at the end of March.
“It was really struggling and was going to shut. We have historically being graded 1 and we are not allowed to take any new residents in.
“I’m local and I’m trying to rebuild its reputation. We are 90% of the way there.
“It’s been difficult but it’s not insurmountable.
“We are working very closely with the authorities to have the embargo lifted.
“We are also pushing for the Care Inspectorate to come out so we can get a higher grading.
“We are keeping all the staff, they have all been given new contracts. Forty were going to lose their jobs.”
Bobby Miller, Head of Adult Social Work Services with North Lanarkshire Council said: “We are working with the new owners and we have found there is evidence of significant improvement at Drumpellier Lodge.
“Following the next inspection by the Care Inspectorate, we will review our current embargo on new people being recommended through the council being placed in the Care Home.”