An Aberdeen care home has been ordered to make a string of improvements after inspectors awarded the facility some of the lowest possible grades for a third time.
The Care Inspectorate rated the quality of care and support at Grandholm Care Home, Bridge of Don, as “weak” – despite being asked to shape up on two separate occasions.
During another inspection last month – the results of which were published last night – the watchdog said it was disappointed to discover that management had failed to act on six improvement orders handed out in January.
“Whilst we have identified and reported on some positive experiences for residents, we found continuing areas for improvement to bring the service up to an acceptable standard,” the inspectorate said.
“Everyone in Scotland has the right to safe, compassionate care which meets their needs and respects their rights.
“We have informed the service of the areas which must improve quickly so that the care provided to residents meets the standards we require.
“We will continue to work closely with this service to ensure it improves, but if we do not see evidence of improvement we will not hesitate to take further action.”
During the latest unannounced inspection in May, which lasted three days, inspectors were concerned to find staff shortages on each floor, due to “miscommunication of shifts” and “short notice sickness”.
They also were disappointed with the heavy reliance on agency staff.
“The provider had recently raised the salary of nurses to try to attract more interest,” they noted.
The inspectorate also listened to concerns of family members who were worried about the “cleanliness” of the home, “mislaid clothes” and the ability of some of the staff.
Grades at the home started to decrease last September when several aspects of care at Grandholm were rated “unsatisfactory” – the lowest award possible.
The previous year, the standard of care was assessed as being among the best in Aberdeen.