‘There is clearly a failure of leadership’

OLDHAM council’s cabinet member for social care and safeguarding, Jenny Harrison, said: “We take reports of substandard care very seriously.

“The care of vulnerable residents is our main priority so, as soon as the findings were brought to our attention, we suspended new admissions to the home.

“We have been working with the home and a range of partners – including CQC, Pennine Care Community Nurses and the Public Health Infection Control service – to specifically identify the areas of concern.

“We are visiting the home weekly, reviewing residents’ individual support plans and ensuring that progress is made in all areas. If the improvements are not sustained we will take the appropriate action.”

Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West and Royton, said he had ‘serious concerns’ about the home, adding: “This is deeply upsetting for the families of residents, who have trusted Edge Hill to care for their mums, dads or relatives.

“The CQC recognising the friendly nature of staff at Edge Hill, and the majority of good comments from residents about staff, is positive.

“However, above all there is clearly a failure of leadership and safety at Edge Hill that is completely inexcusable.

“A significant amount of work needs to be done by Edge Hill’s management, immediately and over the next six months, to lift this care home up to the right standard.”