'Significant failings': Inspectors criticise cleanliness at inadequate Springfield Grange care home in Hemsworth

Springfield Grange Care Home, in Hemsworth, remains in special measures after previously being the subject of a damning report in March this year.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC), which visited Springfield Grange on two separate days last June and July, said that the premises and equipment "were not always clean", though it did note a number of improvements to the service.

Horizon Care, which runs the home said the service was now under new management and that it was committed to "providing quality care and support".

In their report, inspectors said there were "significant failings in cleanliness and infection control practices" on both occasions they visited the venue, which was caring for 43 elderly people at the time.

They described how one resident was seen using a cushion with "unknown debris and hair stuck to it".

They added: "In another person's room we saw a sensor mat was unclean and the assistance seat in the en-suite bathroom had faeces on it."

Elsewhere, there was criticism of how a helmet designed to protect one resident from a head injury if they fell was "not fitted correctly".

In their last report in March, the CQC described how one elderly person had been punched in the face by a fellow resident when inspectors visited the premises in the summer of 2019.

However, the regulator did note that several improvements had been made since then.

The CQC said medicines were now being administered safely and staffing levels were healthy.

Inspectors also took account of the exceptional circumstances care homes are facing because of coronavirus.

In response to the report, Horizon Care said: "We understand that the report may be concerning to some of our clients, their families and friends and for that we are sorry.

"The report has been disappointing for everyone at Springfield Grange.

"The report rightly recognises the improvements made at the service and continuing hard work of the staff team to support the local community and hospital during the unprecedented challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

"A comprehensive action plan for the areas identified in the report was implemented immediately following the inspection and is being overseen by our regional team.

"In addition, Springfield Grange is being led by a new and experienced management team.

"We are determined to continue to make and sustain further improvements.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank clients, family, staff and others for their continued support for Springfield Grange."

Local Democracy Reporting Service