Carmel Lodge Care Home

“This inspection was carried out in response to concerns raised about the safety and management of the home. As a result, we focused specifically on the safe and well-led quality statements.”

“The provider did not always demonstrate a good learning culture. Learning from lessons when things went wrong had not always been embedded, this had placed people at risk of harm. Governance systems were not always robust, which limited the provider’s ability to support continuous learning and delivering consistently good-quality care. While some environmental improvements were needed, the premises and equipment were generally clean, well-maintained, and suitable for people’s needs, with effective risk management in place. Staff had appropriate skills, qualifications, and experience; however, both staff and people reported additional staffing was necessary to provide person-centred, rather than task-focused, support. The provider ensured staff received ongoing training and regular appraisals, to support the delivery of high-quality care. However, we found medicines were not always managed effectively.”

“Staff knew how to raise concerns but told us they did not always feel heard and did not always feel supported by a ‘no-blame culture’. Staff mostly knew how to safeguard people from abuse.”

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“Leaders and staff had a shared vision and culture based on listening, learning and trust. Leaders were visible and supported staff to develop in their roles. Feedback from people, relatives and staff indicated shortages of staff. Although staff understood their roles and responsibilities, we observed them carrying out tasks outside of their designated roles, with staff frequently switching between duties not aligned with their core responsibilities.”

“We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to some of the concerns found at this assessment.”