A care home found to have “shortfalls” in safeguarding has been told to improve by the CQC.

Dawson Lodge on Botley Road was given the rating following an inspection from June 19 to July 9.

The inspection was carried out at the West End care home following concerns about risk management, medication, staffing, care plans, documentation and leadership at the service.

Though the inspection was carried out, there were still unanswered questions as to how the service is managed as there was still not enough time for the new leadership to settle, the report said.

A new acting manager was in post and feedback that inspectors received was positive.

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Although there were areas of good practice since the last inspection, it was not enough to take the care home out of the rating of ‘Requires improvement’.

The report said the service had been through a “challenging time” due to considerable staff turnover.

The report said: “People and staff shared examples of improvements in care, activities and morale.

"One staff member told us: ‘The morale was really poor at the beginning of the year, but in the last month it has been fabulous.’

“The service was in a period of transition. We noted shortfalls, including safeguarding training for staff, formal assessments of people’s capacity and some individual risks. “

It was noted that checks on the safety of the premises and equipment were not consistently completed.

Feedback from staff also indicated there were areas of division within the team as well as shortfalls in the recording of the use of topical creams.

Despite this, people still felt they received good quality care and told inspectors they enjoyed the time with the staff.

It said: “There was a positive culture where feedback was encouraged, and lessons were learnt to improve the safety of the service. People’s needs were assessed and regularly reviewed, and they were supported to access healthcare. People spoke positively of the food provided.”

It added: “People gave positive feedback and told us they felt safe and happy living at Dawson Lodge.

"One person said: ‘Everyone is very kind to me here and friendly. They are considerate and no one says, you must do this or that, to me. It’s, would you like and how can we help you?’”

Brenda Roach, district manager for Dawson Lodge said: “The report contained positive feedback from residents and relatives who use our services, and acknowledges improvements made since our last inspection.

"We will continue to deliver on our action plan and the improvements within the home.

“We are pleased with the recruitment at the home and are working with the team to ensure our new starters are fully supported to ensure all policies and procedures are followed. 

“We are committed to ensuring high standards of care are delivered at the home.

“Our residents’ wellbeing is always paramount.”