A north-east care home has been allowed to admit new residents again almost a year after being banned following a scathing report into how the facility was being run.
The Banks O’ Dee home in Aberdeen was barred from accepting any new admissions last year after inspectors ruled that the way staff claimed they were being treated and trained was having a “detrimental effect” on how the home was run.
A Care Inspectorate investigation also revealed that bosses had launched a probe into staff bullying and harassment, and that six adult support and protection concerns had been reported to the local authority and – “where appropriate” – police.
Operator Four Seasons Healthcare Group, which has homes across the region, said it was struggling to recruit “the right calibre of staff” in the north-east and blamed Aberdeen’s “booming local economy” for making the wages it offers so unappealing.
Almost a year on, inspectors have now ruled that new residents can be let in after numerous improvements were made.
During an inspection earlier this year, it was revealed that the temporary manager had taken up a permanent post which had provided “stability” for the home.
Staff also had opportunities to attend training courses and were “enthusiastic” about what they had learned.
One complaint had been upheld by the Inspectorate – the details of which have not been revealed – but prompt action was taken to rectify the problem.
The home was graded 3’s – adequate – for all aspects of care.
“We found that the provider could demonstrate that the care and support provided by staff had improved and that records were being kept to evidence this,” the inspectors said.
Last night, a spokeswoman for Four Seasons said they were pleased with the work that had been done so far.
“The wellbeing of our residents is our priority and so we are pleased that the Care Inspectorate has recognised improvements in quality of care for residents,” she said.
“They saw care and support being provided for residents with compassion and understanding.
“The inspectors found the care provision is adequate to meet every one of their inspection criteria. We are continuing with our improvement plan to raise standards further.
“We are committed to delivering person-centred care that meets the needs and preferences of each resident.”