Hoyland's Royal Court Care Home put into special measures by CQC

Inspectors found a "lack of strong leadership" as well as safeguarding issues and unsafe practices at Royal Court

A care home in Barnsley has been placed into special measures after inspectors deemed it to be "inadequate".

Hoyland's Royal Court Care Home received the rating after a review in February by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) uncovered a number of issues.

Inspectors found a "lack of strong leadership" as well as safeguarding issues and unsafe practices at the home, run by Healthmade Ltd.

The BBC has contacted the home for a response.

At the time of the assessment, 34 people were living at the accommodation, which provides some services for those with dementia.

The CQC said the inspection was triggered partly due to concerns about risks and personal care.

Despite the overall downgrade, the watchdog said ratings for being caring and responsive at the home remained "good".

Alan Stephenson, of the CQC, said the inspection found the lack of leadership at Royal Court created a culture which did not "encourage high-quality care".

He said inspectors witnessed "unsafe" use of hoists, while meal options were not provided so residents were unable to make choices themselves.

The CQC added that asking for something else to eat would be difficult for people living with dementia.Residents were not given "meaningful activities linked to hobbies and interests" and there was no feedback systems for residents or relatives.

While inspectors were concerned about the management of medicines, risk and infection control, there were "robust recruitment procedures" and sufficient staff and training.

Royal Court has been told where it needs to make "rapid improvements", Mr Stephenson said, adding the home would be kept under "close review".