Stoneyford Care Home, which has operated for more than 30 years, was branded ‘Inadequate’ and placed in ‘special measures’ after an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in November.
But now, after an unannounced review last month, it has been upgraded to ‘Good’, both overall and in four of five individual categories, which reflect how safe, effective, caring and responsive the home is.
The inspectors’ report said: “Residents told us improvements had been made which resulted in them feeling safe at the home. Everyone we spoke with stated staff are kind and caring, and treat them with dignity and respect.”
Although it has 51 bedrooms overall, Stoneyford, one of four facilities managed by Serene Care, now houses and supports 22 elderly and dementia patients.
There was “a shortage of staff, which impacted on care,” according to the November study. Residents were frequently yelled at or talked down to when complaints were made, and no action was taken.
The house was not kept up to the standards necessary to stop the spread of diseases, care plans were not person-centered, and assessments did not identify risks.
Serene Care apologised, saying it was “deeply disappointed”. It promised to “regain trust” with a “robust plan” dedicated to “improving services and ensuring the wellbeing of residents”.
The CQC has now found that a new manager, Deepika Jayapalan, is in place and staffing levels have been increased to such an extent that the home no longer relies on agency staff.
“People know who the new management team are,” said the inspectors’ report. “They are visible around the home and are open and transparent with their communications.”
The new manager was praised as “caring, lovely and approachable”, while staff could now spend more time talking and socialising with residents.
The report said, “Staff informed us that the home’s culture and atmosphere have changed.” They claimed to now function as a team. The atmosphere at home seems at ease and unhurried.
Significant advancements were also discovered by the inspectors in “the appearance and cleanliness of the home,” the administration of medications, and the “regularly reviewed” care plans, which included updates for family members.
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