Watchdog has told home it must improve

A care home has been told it must improve in all areas by the official watchdog.
Newspaper: Reporter Series.
Story: Lydgate Lodge, Soothill Lane, Batley.
Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas".
Photo date: 20/01/16
Picture Ref: AB022b0116Newspaper: Reporter Series.
Story: Lydgate Lodge, Soothill Lane, Batley.
Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas".
Photo date: 20/01/16
Picture Ref: AB022b0116
Newspaper: Reporter Series. Story: Lydgate Lodge, Soothill Lane, Batley. Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas". Photo date: 20/01/16 Picture Ref: AB022b0116

The Care Quality Commission said that Lydgate Lodge in Soothill Lane, Batley, requires improvement after an inspection last September.

Out of date training, a lack of staff and too few stimulating activities were some of the issues which led to the rating of the service for people aged 65 and over.

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Inspectors noted that ten incidents since April 2015 were logged where “people had been involved in situations where they had shouted at other people, made threats of harm and had kicked out or hit out at other people and staff.” These were not referred to safeguarding authorities or the CQC because there had been no physical injuries.

Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."
Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."

“This meant that people could be at risk of harm without appropriate protections in place,” the report reads.

The four inspectors observed an instance where there was little interaction between staff and users.

“In one lounge, one person, who had limited vision, was hard of hearing and required support when mobilising was asking to go to the toilet. We saw they were becoming anxious as they waited. They got up from their chair and started to walk round unaided.”

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The CQC had received information from a whistleblower about staffing levels – and both the workers and residents inspectors spoke to agreed there was a shortage.

Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."
Recent report says the Lodge "requires improvement in all areas."

One resident said: “Last night staff didn’t get me ready on time and they said ‘I didn’t have time, can’t you see how busy I’ve been?’”

Some people at the home have dementia, for whom enjoyable activities are key, the report says. The service did not employ an activity coordinator, relying on staff to carry out that role – but were too busy for morning activities.

Amanda Richardson, regional director of Ideal Carehomes, said: “Since the CQC inspection we have introduced a new manager to the home, Bev Hanson, who has received very positive feedback from residents and relatives. The changes she has already made in the home rectify all areas identified for improvement in the CQC report including training and staff supervision processes as well as a renewed focus on activities. By introducing Regional Activities Executives we will ensure there is a programme of life-enriching activities in the home, putting activities at the heart of care.” She said that at the time of the inspection, Ideal Carehomes had just sold 25 homes to Anchor and has since reviewed its services, which will benefit Lydgate Lodge. New e-learning facilities will make sure staff training is up-to-date, she added.

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