Care service failed to do criminal record checks

A MIDLAND home care service failed to vet staff for criminal records and employed people who ‘did not always have the necessary skills or experience’, a report revealed.

The Care Quality Commission rated Blessed Hearts Home Care – which provides care to people living in their own houses and flats – ‘inadequate’ following an inspection at the end of March this year.

The report revealed concerns about an ‘unsafe’ recruitment policy, with one relative telling inspectors: “They’ll take anyone off the streets.”

It emerged employees with criminal convictions had not been risk assessed, while suitable references had not been sought for others.

People also felt the firm, based in Middlemore Road, West Bromwich, “didn’t always take Covid-19 seriously”.

One person said the previous manager had entered their home without wearing PPE, while another said: “They’re not hot on Covid. They’ll tell you ‘I’ve had Covid so you’re alright’’.”

Relatives also complained about carers’ timekeeping, stating they were “regularly late” and clients had faced “long waits” for their meals.

Others raised concerns about the quality of care – a relative said they had to intervene to stop their loved one from falling while being assisted by carers, while another said their family member was ‘dragged by their arms’ to help them sit up.

However, not everyone was dissatisfied with the service. One person told inspectors their regular carers had supported them to increase their independence, adding: “Their patience has been incredible. They’ve helped improve my quality of life.”

The CQC said the provider took “immediate steps to address the concerns found during the inspection”.