Alderwood Care Home in Boothstown ordered to improve

Alderwood Care Home in Boothstown was given an overall rating of “requires improvement” after healthcare watchdog, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), visited the site.

The Simpson Road home’s safety was given the lowest possible rating of “inadequate” while its effectiveness, responsiveness and leadership were ranked in the “requires improvement” category.

CQC inspectors said: "Appropriate systems were not in place to safeguard people from abuse.

“Drinks for people with swallowing difficulties were not always made to the correct consistency.

“Staff did not receive appropriate supervision and appraisal to support them in their role.

“People did not always receive care in line with their assessed needs and preferences.

“Appropriate care plans were not always in place and accurate records were not always maintained by staff.

“The service was not well-led.

“Appropriate governance systems were not in place to identify and act upon the concerns identified at this inspection.

The report, which was published on Monday, did record that the facility was given a score of “good” in the area of if the “service is caring”.

The report said: “People who lived at the home and visiting relatives made positive comments about the care being provided.

“They were treated with dignity and respect and had their independence promoted by staff.

“We observed caring interactions between staff and people living at the home.

“A range of activities were available for people at the home to participate in and complaints were handled appropriately.

“Team meetings were held where staff could speak about their work and discuss concerns.”

There were 34 people living at the care home at the time of the inspection on April 24.

The first day inspectors arrived was unannounced before they informed staff that they would return the next two days to complete the assessments.

A spokesman for Alderwood Care Home refused to comment about the CQC inspection.