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Sudbury care home placed in special measures after CQC report finds residents came to harm
Overview
The Red House Welfare and Housing Society in Sudbury, Suffolk, has been rated inadequate and placed in special measures by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection in June. Inspectors found failing leadership, low staffing levels, poor maintenance, unsecure medicines, and a poor culture that resulted in residents coming to actual harm. The home has apologised and is working on improvements with Suffolk County Council.
Key points
- The Red House care home in Sudbury was rated inadequate by the CQC and placed in special measures.
- Inspectors found residents came to actual harm due to neglectful care, poor risk management, and inadequate care plans.
- Issues identified included unsecured medicines, accessible hazardous substances, uncovered hot water pipes, and poor maintenance increasing infection risks.
- Specific cases of harm included a resident left with an untreated pressure ulcer for two weeks, a urinary tract infection due to dehydration, and extreme discomfort requiring medical intervention regarding bowel movements.
- Staff reported an underlying bullying culture and feeling rushed due to low staffing levels, while leaders failed to carry out formal audits or properly report safeguarding concerns.
- The care home has apologised for the shortcomings and stated it is committed to making substantial improvements in partnership with Suffolk County Council.