CQC sees 'significant improvements' at care home

A care home in Nottinghamshire previously rated as inadequate and placed in special measures has now been rated as good after "significant improvements".

In September 2024, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) found multiple instances of neglect and unsafe manual handling practices at Forest Manor Care Home in Sutton-in-Ashfield.

But the new report said residents now generally felt safe and well cared for, with staff aware of safeguarding and risk management priorities, and medicines handled safely.

Inspectors also found the home was clean, and highlighted improvements in management which ensured a continuity of care.

The home, which is run by ASHA Healthcare Limited and has about 40 residents, provides personal and nursing care to younger and older adults with support needs.

Inspectors found staff to be "cheery and approachable", while residents described a generally positive experience, with many people highlighting the kindness and knowledge of the staff and management team.

As well as good safeguarding training, the report said staff knew how to report abuse and were confident to do so.

Leaders ensured there were enough skilled staff on duty to meet people's needs, medicines were managed well and call bells were responded to quickly, inspectors found.

Concerns such as exposed hot water pipes near radiators, and a limited number of garden and morning activities, were raised but once highlighted were quickly addressed.

CQC has upgraded the ratings for how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led the service is from inadequate to good.

Greg Rielly, CQC's deputy director of adult social care in the East Midlands, said: "When we inspected Forest Manor Care Home, we found significant improvements had been made and people now received safe treatment and person-centred care.

"People's individuality and likes were respected. We saw people's bedrooms had been personalised how they liked and it was clear staff knew them well.

"Overall, leaders and staff should be proud of the changes and the culture they have implemented. Leaders and staff are now in a good position to maintain these improvements to the continued benefits of the people they care for."

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