Stonedale Lodge: Whistleblower sparks care home probe

The home provides general nursing and palliative care as well as support for those with dementia

A manager and "several" staff have been suspended from a Liverpool nursing home over a whistleblower's concerns.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it had received "information of concern" regarding Stonedale Lodge Residential and Nursing Home, Croxteth.

Liverpool City Council said it would make a "thorough investigation" into the allegations.

A spokesman for the home said it acted as soon as issues were raised by the whistleblower.

The allegations, which have not been revealed, concern staff in one unit who were given a "precautionary" suspension by the home.

Debbie Westhead, CQC deputy chief inspector of adult social care for the north said: "The issues brought to our attention are currently subject to investigation by the local authority safeguarding team.

"CQC is also looking closely at the concerns raised to determine any regulatory action that may be required."

A council spokesman said: "We can confirm we are working alongside the CQC to carry out a thorough investigation into allegations made about Stonedale Lodge.

"The home has voluntarily suspended any further placements into this particular unit."

The home on Stonedale Crescent has 180 bedrooms and provides general nursing and palliative care as well as support for those with dementia.

A Stonedale Lodge spokesman said: "A staff member used our whistle-blowing system to raise concerns with us about one unit at the home.

"We acted immediately, notifying the adult safeguarding team and CQC, and suspending some staff from that unit while we investigate."