Care home still inadequate, says watchdog

CQC TO KEEP SERVICE UNDER REVIEW

A CARE home investigated by the health watchdog following a death has been branded ‘inadequate’ twice in less than a year.

Derby House in Stretford could face being shut down unless urgent improvements are made.

The Trafford facility, which cares for people with dementia, was put into special measures by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) last April.

It was deemed ‘inadequate’ for a second time following an inspection in November, prompted in part by a death, details of which have not been revealed.

A CQC report states the home ‘requires improvement’ in the ‘effectiveness,’ ‘caring’ and ‘responsiveness’ categories.

The report says “This service will continue to be kept under review and, if needed, could be escalated to urgent enforcement action.

“Where necessary another inspection will be conducted within a further six months, and if there is not enough improvement so there is still a rating of inadequate for any key question or overall, we will take action to prevent the provider from operating this service. This will lead to cancelling their registration or to varying the terms of their registration.”

In terms of safety, and management, it was deemed ‘inadequate.’

CQC inspectors raised concerns about doors being wedged open and fire drills not being carried out regularly.

Half of staff had not completed safeguarding training, the CQC said, meaning residents were put at risk.

Just three staff – of 24 – had completed training to help them understand when people lack the mental capacity to make decisions and need special protection to ensure their rights are safeguarded.

Some staff had not completed training in dementia awareness and how to handle residents. Breakfast choices were limited, inspectors said, and there were concerns about infection control.

Residents were treated with respect and dignity, CQC chiefs said. In April, inspectors said new recruits were not properly scrutinised to ensure they were suitable for the job. Little had changed by November, they said.

A spokeswoman for Trafford council said: “We take the safety and quality of care residents receive in our homes in Trafford seriously and work hard with the providers to ensure they meet the required standards expected by the CQC, ourselves, and of course their residents.

“We are working closely with the owner to ensure residents are cared for in a safe and comfortable place.

“The council will continue to work with the home on improving the issues identified by the CQC.”

The M.E.N. has contacted bosses at Derby House numerous times for comment.