'Inadequate' Carlisle care home put in special measures

Staff at the nursing home had not been subject to background checks Credit: PA

Harker Grange Nursing Home near Carlisle has been rated as 'Inadequate' and placed into special measures.

An inspection, carried out by The Care Quality Commission in May, found that the home failed to provide care that was safe, effective, caring, responsive or well led.

The providers of care, Mrs Gail Helen Curzon & Dr Robert Neil Curzon, were told that they must make improvements to protect the safety and welfare of people living there.

Deputy chief inspector, Debbie Westhead, says the CQC is working with Cumbria County Council to ensure that people at the home are not at undue risk.

Some of the findings from the latest inspection included:

  • Staff had not been subject to background checks - some staff had criminal history.

  • Sufficient staff were not supplied to meet residents needs.

  • Staff weren't trained properly to do the job.

  • No risk assessments were carried out to ensure safety of residents.

  • Issues surrounding providing hydration and nutrition to residents.

  • Infection control was not managed properly.

  • Unsafe areas within care home - exposed cavities.