Inspectors put care home into 'special measures'

Ashill Lodge Care Home has seen its overall rating drop from "requires improvement" to "inadequate"

A care home has been put into "special measures" by the Care Quality Commission because inspectors are concerned about the safety of its residents.

Ashill Lodge in the village of Ashill near Watton, Norfolk, provides accommodation for up to 35 older people, some of whom have dementia.

The CQC also dropped its overall rating from "requires improvement" to "inadequate", claiming the home had not listened to advice from a previous visit.

In response, care home director Kay Naidoo said the "rating system is not fit for purpose".

The CQC said it decided to inspect the home after it was contacted by concerned whistleblowers and health professionals.

Stuart Dunn, CQC deputy director of operations in the east of England, said inspectors had found further decline.

"The home wasn't safe or well-maintained, with several dangerous hazards that posed significant risks to residents, especially those living with dementia," he said.

"We have told leaders where we expect to see immediate and significant improvement and have imposed conditions on the provider's registration to protect people."

Mr Naidoo said: "We appreciate that the CQC is under tremendous pressure, and our view is that the rating system is not fit for purpose.

"The comments are not reflective of day-to-day work everyone puts in and are more isolated instances.

"We have worked with social services and the CQC and actioned the various points and have requested a review."

A "special measures" rating meant Ashill Lodge would be closely monitored to ensure residents are safe.