Police called in over care home ‘abuse’ allegation
AWA T C H D O G called in the police over allegations of abuse at a care home for young adults with learning disabilities.
Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission also placed Broughton Lodge, on London Road, in ‘special measures’ as a result of the damning report.
The home, which cares for 17 young adults who have autism, learning disabilities and complex special needs, has been rated as ‘ inadequate’ in all five areas of inspection.
Inspectors found a number of breaches of the Health and Social Care Act, and contacted police and the council when they discovered allegations of abuse had not been notified to the CQC.
These allegations are not of a sexual nature.
In the report, inspectors said: “Prior to, during and following our inspection, we received information of concern from staff and whistleblowers that raised concerns regarding the care and treatment of people using the service.
“The concerns covered a range of issues such as: the management and staff culture within Broughton Lodge; inadequate training; the standard of care provided; inappropriate use of physical intervention; governance, quality assurance and leadership; failure to safeguard people from abuse and improper treatment and to act upon safeguarding concerns and complaints.”
The manager and deputy manager were both suspended during the inspection and the manager later resigned. A new manager has now been appointed.
Councillor Hilda Gaddum, who represents Sutton ward, said the failings are ‘shocking’ but is reassured that the council is working hard to ensure the safety of residents.
She said: “I was shocked to read the CQC report on Broughton Lodge and its very sombre findings, particularly as the residents are so vulnerable.”
A spokesman for CAS Behavioural Health, which runs the home, said they are working with the council and CQC to address concerns. She said: “We take very seriously any concerns raised by CQC as the regulator of the services that we provide. We have already implemented a range of measures at Broughton Lodge to ensure that the issues identified are addressed, including making changes to the Management Team. Resident care and safety remains our top priority and we are committed to continuously improving our procedures, protocols and training.”
A spokesman from Cheshire East Council, which has been monitoring the home since it was established in 2015, said: “A monitoring visit took place in March 2017 and a number of concerns were raised, resulting in further inspections by the council’s quality assurance team. Since July there have been daily visits to Broughton Lodge in conjunction with other local authorities and colleagues from NHS Eastern Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The council’s quality assurance and safeguarding teams continue to work with the care provider to address all of the issues raised and to ensure that all residents remain safe and well. Further meetings are planned, and the care home is co-operating with all agencies involved.”
A spokesman from Cheshire Police confirmed an investigation is in ‘very early stages’.
Services at the care home will be inspected again in six months.