Hunters Lodge Care Home

Hunters Lodge Care Home provides residential care for up to 44 older people, most of whom live with dementia or mental health needs. This recent inspection report highlights several critical areas requiring attention, particularly regarding risk management, daily record-keeping, and the overall oversight by the leadership team. While the home has a welcoming atmosphere and staff members are viewed warmly by residents and their families, the inspection points out notable gaps in how safety and operational procedures are monitored and maintained.

When looking at safety, the service faced significant challenges. Inspectors found that health and support risks—including specific vulnerabilities, skin integrity, and hydration—were not always properly assessed, monitored, or mitigated, leading to incidents between residents. The management of medicines also fell short of required standards, with issues noted around routine administration, time-sensitive prescriptions, topical creams, and as-required medications. However, recruitment practices were safe, infection control procedures were properly followed, and the home maintained an open visiting policy.

For effectiveness, the home supports residents to make choices in their daily lives, and proper legal authorizations were mostly in place regarding decision-making frameworks. At the same time, staff training specifically focused on mental health and in-depth dementia care was limited, and the physical layout of the main communal areas occasionally became loud and chaotic, which could heighten agitation for residents.

The caring aspect of the service remains a strong point. Staff members spoke warmly about the individuals they support, and residents, along with their relatives, praised the approachable and supportive nature of the management team. Observers noted that staff interacted with residents in a kind, considerate, and respectful manner, making many families feel confident in recommending the home.

In terms of being responsive, the management team showed a willingness to listen to feedback and quickly began taking action to address concerns raised during the visit, such as arranging dedicated one-to-one staff support for individuals with increasing needs. Families and staff reported having regular opportunities to share their views, and leadership was generally responsive to daily operational feedback.

Finally, regarding leadership, the service lacked effective internal governance systems and rigorous audits to catch and resolve the safety and record-keeping issues identified during the inspection. Although the leadership team was receptive to feedback and had started implementing an action plan with the help of an external consultant, improved oversight is needed to ensure long-term, consistent compliance and transparency.