Care home rebellion

WE'RE happy here . . . from left, Brenda Faulkner, Wendy Bychowiec, Stan Dunkerley, Joan O'Connor, Georgina Horsfall, Alison Holt, Leigh Whitehead, Brian Halliwell and Angela Hey

STAFF and residents at an Oldham care home have disputed the findings of the CQC after receiving an inadequate rating.

Representatives at Edge Hill Residential Home said improvements have been made since the inspection last November and objected to the report being released so far after the visit.

It comes after the Oldham Road home was rated inadequate in a report published in March, and consequently placed in special measures.

During the two-day visit inspectors observed "poor moving and handling practices, insufficient meaningful activities, inadequate staffing levels, poor infection control and poor food hygiene practices."

Home manager Michele Walsh said: "The CQC report was not a true reflection of how this home runs - it was just two days.

"Some of the things were factual but they have been addressed."

Relative Stan Dunkerley said: "They didn't deserve that report in November."

Georgina Horsfall, who has worked at the home since 2008, said: "The mistakes have been dealt with. There have been lots of changes.

"Michele has been the best manager I have known."

The CQC said staff were kind and caring in their interactions, the majority of comments about staff were positive, medicines were managed safely and residents were safeguarded from harm and abuse.

Resident Stephen Hyde said: "The staff are excellent and always very vigilant. The food is good."

Resident Brenda Faulkner, who has been at the home for eight years, said: "The care has been excellent. I have no grumbles at all."

Since November a number of staff have been employed, including a chef, the home has been decorated, activities added and care plans updated.

Alison Holt who has just started working at Edge Hill said: "The care standards are very high and we have brilliant support from managers."

Relative Angela Hey said: "If we have any complaints we voice our opinion and it is listened to."

Relative Brian Halliwell whose mother resides at Edge Hill said: "There is no doubt that since the report came out things have improved but I didn't think they were that bad before."

Oldham Council placed a temporary suspension on the service prior to the CQC inspection.

Councillor Jenny Harrison, cabinet member for social care and safeguarding, said: "We are continuing to monitor the service provided and the improvements made. This has included seeking feedback from residents and their families."

The service will be re-inspected within six months.