A care home has moved out of special measures but is still inadequate according to health inspectors.
Foxburrow Grange, in Colchester, which cares for 58 residents including some with dementia, was rated as “good” in the areas of care and effectiveness, but “inadequate” in safety, responsiveness, and leadership during an inspection in December by the Care Quality Commission.
It follows on from an inspection last March where inspectors placed the four-wing care home into special measures.
But in the most recent December visits, inspectors heard reports of bullying by managers and some staff feeling unsupported.
In the report, one relative told inspectors: “I often find my family member alone, staff are not around, visible or are watching TV. They don't always engage with people. Managers are tucked away; they are not visible.”
It was also found that, while safety improvements had been made, safeguarding policies were not always implemented.
The report stated: “We found safeguarding matters were not always managed according to the provider's own policy and procedure. For example, although an incident was investigated, the registered manager had not contacted the local authority safeguarding team, for advice on if the incident would be considered as a safeguarding adult concern.”
Particular concern was raised about electric sockets accessible next to patient beds.
In another case, a person with limited verbal communication had no aids and had not been referred for speech and language therapy, though it is understood a referral has now been made.
The report did note, however, that improvements had been made following March’s damning report noting serious concerns about the management of medicines and the excessive use of restraint.
Chief executive of Foxburrow Grange Pitro Rejek said: “We have invested in the home and will continue to do so. We will work through actions stemming from this inspection submitting a weekly update to our Inspector that tracks progress against our required actions. We look forward to a re inspection at the earliest opportunity. We will continue to deliver safe and good quality care within the home. This is our priority.”
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