Barnsley Care Home Designated for Special Measures by CQC After “Inadequate” Rating

A care facility located in Barnsley has been designated for special measures subsequent to inspectors determining that its conditions had deteriorated since their last assessment. Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) assigned Hunningley Grange, situated on Doncaster Road, an “inadequate” rating, a decline from its “requires improvement” status after an earlier inspection conducted in July 2023. The inspectors observed that staff “worked hard” but highlighted that previously identified safety issues remained unaddressed, and the premises were “visibly dirty which placed people at risk of infection.” H&L Care Ltd, the operator of Hunningley Grange, chose not to provide a statement when contacted by the BBC. Hunningley Grange offers personal care services to elderly individuals, including some who live with dementia. Alan Stephenson, the CQC’s interim deputy director of operations for the North region, stated: “It was disappointing to see little engagement or conversation between staff and people.” He added: “The home’s leaders didn’t provide stimulation, activities and community engagement to aid people’s wellbeing and give them a sense of purpose.” Stephenson further commented: “Staff were often rushed and didn’t have time to sit and talk properly to people, this lack of time also resulted in less positive outcomes for the people who called Hunningley Grange home.” Mr Stephenson acknowledged that staff “worked hard and treated people with kindness,” but noted that “some people looked unkempt, needed a shave and nail care, and wore stained clothing which is unacceptable.” The inspection report indicated that a new manager had been appointed and was undertaking efforts for improvement, though it was deemed “too early to see any real progress.” Mr Stephenson remarked: “It was positive, however, that staff felt improvements were under way to make the service a better and safer place for people to live.” He continued: “Many said they felt happier and less stressed now concerns were being addressed.” The CQC stated its expectation for “rapid and continued improvements” and affirmed it “won’t hesitate to use (our)regulatory powers further if people aren’t receiving the care they have a right to expect.”