Homelands Nursing Home in Horsham rated 'requires improvement' by CQC

Homelands Nursing Home, in Cowfold, near Bolney, was given the rating following an inspection from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in July.

Inspectors raised concerns about the control and prevention of infection and said the provider had not always met national guidance in relation to infection control.

“During our visit we saw staff were not observing safe use of PPE,” they said.

“Staff did not always wear a mask or wear a mask appropriately.

“This was contrary to government guidance and placed people at an increased risk of contracting Covid-19.

“We raised our concerns with the deputy manager who took action to ensure infection prevention and control measures were followed.

“During our visit we spoke with the registered manager, she was unaware that some staff were not following guidance regarding the use of PPE.

"Following our visit we have received assurances from the registered manager that she has taken action and staff are following current PPE guidance.”

Homelands Nursing Home received the 'requires improvement' rating after an inspection in July

The home’s registered manager Frances Price said the inspection was carrried out on "one of the hottest days of the year" and that staff were “struggling with working in the heat” and therefore some were “not wearing their masks correctly”.

She added that the only concerns raised by inspectors related to the "lack of correct mask wearing".

“I feel sorry for the staff who have worked so hard throughout the pandemic and that this isn't reflected in our new rating,” she said.

However, staff were praised for their “kind and compassionate care” and the support they gave residents.

“People received kind and compassionate care,” said inspectors.

“Staff protected and respected people's privacy and dignity.

“They understood and responded to people's individual needs.

“Staff knew and understood people well and were responsive, supporting them to live a quality life of their choosing. They placed people's wishes, needs and rights at the heart of everything they did.

“People told us they felt involved in their care and support.

“One person told us, "[I] can choose how I spend my time." Other comments from people included, "I love it here", "The staff are very kind", "I love the food", and, "I'd say if I'm not happy."