Barton Brook Care Home

Barton Brook Care Home has undergone an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) which has revealed significant areas requiring improvement across several key aspects of care. This report provides a detailed overview of the findings from the inspection visit on 26 and 27 September, and 3 October 2023. The inspection aimed to assess the home's performance in relation to safety, effectiveness, care, responsiveness, and leadership.

On safety, the home did not always manage risks effectively, including those related to falls, skin integrity, and environmental hazards. Staff did not consistently follow care plans for high-risk individuals, and there were issues with the security of kitchen areas and the accessibility of potentially dangerous items on dementia units. Incidents were not always followed up appropriately, and concerns were raised about medication storage and the lack of protocols for 'as and when required' medicines.

In terms of how effective the care is, the service did not always achieve good outcomes. There were inconsistencies in care provision, and crucial procedures were not always followed when individuals lacked the capacity to make decisions, with restrictions implemented without proper Mental Capacity Act assessments. Some bedrooms lacked personalisation, contributing to an unhomely environment, and the external grounds were poorly maintained.

Regarding caring practices, the report noted that people were not always supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives. Staff did not always act in people's best interests, and there were instances where people's dignity was compromised. Communication needs were not always met, and activities and stimulation were limited for residents.

The service's responsiveness also requires improvement. Care plans contained contradictory information, posing a risk to the correct delivery of care. While relatives were encouraged to visit, issues with staffing levels meant people were not always promptly attended to, and there were delays in receiving necessary support.

Finally, concerning leadership, there has been a lack of consistent management in the past year. Meetings for residents, relatives, and staff had not been held consistently, and staff supervisions and appraisals were not always carried out regularly. The failure to ensure compliance with regulations and the decline in ratings across all key questions highlight significant concerns regarding the overall leadership and governance of the home.