Care Home Rated Inadequate, Placed in Special Measures

A care home has been rated as inadequate after an inspection revealed residents faced 45-minute waits to use the toilet and were compelled to use broken hoists and rusty shower chairs. Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) reported that Woodlands Lodge Care Home in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, was so untidy it presented a fire risk, and the building’s strong odour made it an “unpleasant place to live.” The residential care home, which accommodates 24 people, has been placed into special measures and will be closely monitored by the CQC to ensure improvements are made. The BBC has contacted the home for comment. An unannounced inspection occurred in October, prompted by concerns from Barnsley Council regarding residents’ safety and the quality of care provided. Alan Stephenson, CQC deputy director of operations in the north, stated: “When we inspected Woodlands Lodge, it was disappointing to see a home that wasn’t well managed which was reflected in their culture and resulted in people being placed at risk of harm and not receiving proper care.” Other issues identified by inspectors included residents at risk of falling being left unsupported for “long periods of time,” and the absence of care plans during mealtimes for those at risk of choking. Despite receiving an overall rating of inadequate, the home was given a good rating for the areas of caring and effectiveness. Mr Stephenson added: “Woodlands was supposed to be a place that people call home, and we found the whole building was poorly maintained and unclean, with several environmental risks that could place people at harm.” Inspectors also found that staff had not been recruited safely, there was a lack of a positive culture, and residents felt there were not enough staff to support them safely. Additionally, it was noted that “leaders did not ensure lessons were learned when things went wrong.” Woodlands Lodge Care Home will remain under close review by the CQC. “We have told leaders where we expect to see rapid, and widespread improvements,” Mr Stephenson said. “We will return to check on their progress and won’t hesitate to use our regulatory powers further if people aren’t receiving the care they have a right to expect.”