Castle Douglas care home has weeks to make improvements or face losing its licence

Castle Douglas Care Home Given Ultimatum by Care Inspectorate in Cast of Licence Revocation

A care home in Castle Douglas is facing the risk of losing its licence if improvements are not made within weeks. The Care Inspectorate has highlighted several concerns regarding Carlingwark House in Castle Douglas. An improvement notice was issued in September, demanding significant changes to be implemented, some as early as the end of October.

Following a visit in August, inspectors found that Merse House in Kirkcudbright, another property operated by Park Homes Ltd, was not operating in accordance with regulations. The operators have been given until December to make necessary changes. Park Homes Ltd had previously stated that they take such issues seriously and are dedicated to addressing them promptly.

Carlingwark House, which currently houses 28 residents, was rated as “weak” in all areas during an inspection report. Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership (DGHSCP) has suspended new admissions to the care home while improvements are being carried out. The partnership emphasized that the welfare of residents is their top priority.

The issues raised by the Care Inspectorate include the need to ensure adequate staffing levels, promoting health and safety, accurate monitoring of residents’ needs, cleanliness requirements, leadership and management standards, and provision of accessible showers. Failure to show significant improvement within the specified timeline may result in the cancellation of the care home’s registration.

The DGHSCP stated that the issuing of an improvement notice is a serious matter and acknowledged the authority of the Care Inspectorate to revoke a care home’s registration if expectations are not met. Park Homes Ltd has been approached for comment but has not responded at the time of reporting.

In conclusion, the situation at Carlingwark House underscores the importance of maintaining high standards in care homes to ensure the well-being and safety of residents. The regulatory actions taken serve as a reminder of the accountability that care home operators must uphold in providing quality care services.