The Fitzwilliam Care Centre, a care home located in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, has been given special measures following an alarming inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Previously rated as ‘Inadequate’ in July, worsened conditions were noted in a subsequent inspection in October. Key issues were found that adversely impact residents, particularly those relying on mental health care, as a result of ‘substandard leadership’. Mr Greg Reilly from the CQC maintained that deficiencies in leadership were affecting the quality of residents’ lives. Mablethorpe Care Limited, which manages the home, has so far made no official comment regarding the situation.
The latest visit by the CQC revealed further infringements in areas of consent, provision of safe environments, safeguarding protocols, and an absence of legally obligatory event reporting. The care centre is presently deemed inadequate in all areas, a step down from its previous rating of ‘requires improvement’. Being placed under special measures means intense scrutiny to ensure the safety of residents whilst the care home works towards improvements. The CQC has set in motion regulatory actions, however, recourse remains available for the Fitzwilliam Care Centre by means of an appeal.
Carrying out correct medicine management was another area of concern, with inaccuracies found in the pharmacy stocks of nine out of 15 of the care home’s residents, and one individual dangerously running out of essential medications. Staffing levels, even though marginally improved, are still unsatisfactory for ensuring safety during external outings or emergencies. In the report, Mr Reilly highlighted that older residents were generally content but voiced complaints concerning the mental health units, with safety and support measures being found wanting. These issues were particularly pronounced during incidents, a situation further strained by inadequate staffing levels.
This article has been adapted for The Lincoln Post from original reporting conducted by www.bbc.com.
