Care home still needs to improve

Health inspectors rated Thomas Owen House as “requires improvement” following a recent inspection - eight months after it was found to be in breach of a string of regulations.

A report, published last Thursday by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) said the Thornhill Lees care home had made improvements.

However, the report said: “Although we found improvements had been made in addressing the requirements made at the last inspection, we considered more work was needed to ensure improvements were sustained, reviewed and developed further to ensure people received high quality care.”

The CQC took enforcement action after inspectors raised concerns over breaches of care regulations last year.

The Lee House Road care home was rated as “requires improvement” for being safe, responsive and well-led after a January inspection.

It was also rated as “good” for being effective and caring.

The report added: “While outcomes for people had improved, further development is required in creating and embedding a culture where people are empowered and enabled to maximise their full potential.”

Owner Kevin Martin said: “Inspectors wanted to see improvements sustained for a longer period.

“We are confident that we will have all the top ratings next time.