Care Home Rated Inadequate Following Discovery of Expired Food and Safety Lapses

An inadequate rating has been assigned to a care home after inspectors discovered expired food items and found residents restricted to their rooms due to a broken lift. Moorhead Rest Home in Accrington, Lancashire, was identified as having numerous safety deficiencies that posed a risk of harm to its residents. The residential facility, which provides care for individuals living with dementia and disabilities, has been placed under special measures and will be closely monitored to ensure necessary improvements are implemented, according to the Care Quality Commission (CQC) watchdog. Operated by M.M.R Care Ltd, the establishment had previously received a “good” rating when managed by a different provider. An inspection conducted in August led to the issuance of three warning notices, directing the provider to prioritize substantial enhancements in areas such as effective management, staffing levels, and the provision of safe care. Sheila Grant, the CQC’s director of operations for the north region, stated that the malfunctioning lift compelled some residents to remain in their bedrooms throughout the day, and the facility’s leadership had failed to establish provisions for individuals unable to access other areas without the lift. Furthermore, inspectors observed two residents sharing a bedroom without the requisite consent. Rusty toilet frames and medications were found unattended, as were food products past their best before dates in the kitchen, with one particular item exceeding its date by over a year. Additional findings included open cupboards containing cleaning chemicals and electrical items, as well as corridors obstructed by cluttered wheelchairs and walking frames. Other deficiencies noted were insufficient staffing, inadequate training, and safety equipment for resident assistance, such as slings and hoists, which were not undergoing regular servicing. The CQC reported that residents provided positive feedback, and inspectors observed staff demonstrating kindness towards individuals who seemed at ease. Ms Grant further stated: “We have told Moorhead Rest Home where we expect to see significant improvements and will continue to monitor them closely during this time to ensure people living at the home are safe. We will return to check on their progress and will not hesitate to take further action if we are not assured people are receiving the care they have a right to expect.”