A Leicester care home will remain in special measures after a series of failings were identified, including “ineffective cleaning practices” and “inefficient staffing levels.”
The findings relate to Gratia Residential Care Home, which provides personal care for up to 20 people.
The facility received an unannounced inspection in late 2022, where it was found to be ‘ineffective’ in several key areas.
Inspectors found unclean equipment and dirt and debris inside the home, which sits in Groby Road.
In their report, published earlier this month, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) states: “We were not assured that the provider was promoting safety through the layout and hygiene practices of the premises. Areas of the home were unclean, and equipment was unclean. Cleaning practices at the service were not effective in removing dirt and debris.”
In the report, staffing concerns were also highlighted, with inspectors noting that there were not enough staff to meet people’s needs.
“Staff were not safely recruited. We reviewed three staff files and found none of them to meet legal requirements because they did not contain proof of staff members’ identity,” states the CQC.
“Two files also did not contain sufficient references to ensure they were of suitable character and experience to complete their role.”
Safety concerns were also raised, with issues surrounding the administration of medicine set out in the report as well as improper personal emergency evacuation plans.
Leadership at the home was also labelled “weak” and “out of touch.”
Care “was not always person centred” it added.
“People were not always treated with dignity and respect. People were infantilised and staff used degrading descriptions of people.”
The Care Quality Commission will carry out another inspection within six months.
Gratia Residential Care Limited has been contacted for comment.
