Leeds care home still in special measures

Ashlands in Methley, Leeds, was rated ‘inadequate’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection last year.

The health watchdog said the home – which specialises in caring for older people with dementia – was not safe, caring or effective.

A further inspection took place this summer and the newly-published report reveals Ashlands remains in special measures.

Although there were improvements around privacy and dignity, CQC inspectors found breaches in regulations on safe care and treatment, staffing, meeting nutritional needs, good governance and premises and equipment.

Issues included that staff were uncertain how many people lived in the home, there were varying instructions to follow in the event of a fire and workers felt they were short-staffed. Medicines were not managed safely and were not always given on time or as prescribed, and residents didn’t always receive prompt access to healthcare.

The report said that improvements promised in an action plan drawn up after the last inspection were “not evident”. A further inspection will take place within six months to check on progress.

A relative of a resident at the home, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “I cannot understand why, when they have been given a report, that they have not done what they should have.”

Roche Healthcare, which runs Ashlands, did not wish to comment.