Balmore Country House

The report says staff recruitment checks were completed, including identity, qualification and criminal record checks.

“Staff were recruited safely. Relevant checks were completed to ensure staff were suitable to work with people.” from the report

Accidents and incidents were investigated and reported through the appropriate processes.

“The provider had the processes in place to enable the appropriate staff members / management to investigate accidents and incidents and to report them to the relevant authorities.” from the report

People generally liked the food and could ask for alternatives. Care records included guidance for people with specific dietary needs.

“People told us the food, on the whole was good, and they had choices about what meals they would like.” from the report

Inspectors found that the Mental Capacity Act and liberty safeguards were being applied appropriately.

“We found the MCA and DoLS were being applied appropriately.” from the report

Medicines and thickeners were stored insecurely, some without clear dates or labels. Controlled drugs were not disposed of safely, creating a significant risk of harm.

“People's medicines were not managed safely. There were concerns about the way medicines were stored, used, and disposed of.” from the report

Inspectors found dirty equipment, stained bedding and carpets, clinical waste left on bathroom floors, and personal care products in the wrong bathrooms.

“Some areas of the home were in a state of disrepair meaning it could not be cleaned effectively.” from the report

Inspectors found unsafe flooring, hot exposed pipes, an unlocked unsafe room, and equipment stored in bedrooms or left insecurely.

“The provider's failure to ensure safe premises and equipment placed people at increased risk of harm.” from the report

People were not always kept clean, comfortable or respectfully dressed. Inspectors also saw staff stop people walking or otherwise discourage their independence.

“The provider failed to ensure people were always treated with dignity and respect.” from the report

Audits and staff reviews did not identify serious risks. The provider had not given the registered manager enough support to manage the home effectively.

“Quality assurance procedures were in place; however, these were ineffective.” from the report

Some people said they felt lonely and wanted more company. Staff sometimes walked past people calling for help or did not respond quickly enough.

“Some people and a relative told us they or their family members experienced loneliness at the home.” from the report