CQC rate Basildon care home inadequate as they use "disrespectful" language
Ashview cares for those with Autism and learning difficulties
A care home in Essex which cares for up to 13 autistic people and those with learning disabilities, has been downgraded from requires improvement to inadequate by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Ashview, run by Ashview House Limited, in Vange, Basildon, was found to have used "outdated and disrespectful language" when describing people's emotional support needs.
It's ratings for how safe and well-led it is has also been dropped to inadequate.
The residential home has been places into special measures after the inspections in May and June. The CQC had hoped after their visit last year that many of the issues raised would have been taken into account, but a statement from the watchdog said it's "unacceptable that so little has been done to improve" since the last inspections.
The inspections were to follow up on the suggested improvements made last July, as well as concerns that were raised about the safety and quality of care.
Inspectors findings
Inspectors also found that loved ones weren't always involved in decisions about care and that leaders allowed care that was convenient, rather than specified to an individuals need. The CQC stated this infringed on their abilities to live meaningful, safe and fulfilling lives.
The report also stated that it wasn't clear how decisions on people being able to go out were made - which the CQC said infringes on their human rights.
As well as using outdated and disrespectful behaviour, they also found staff didn't always speak to people when they are providing care.
The area was also found to have cluttered and poorly maintained areas, but did state that Ashview was going through building refurbishments at the time.
CQC inspectors did also find people were comfortable about talking to staff and raising concerns, as well as having implemented equality and diversity training to encourage more personalised care, but this wasn’t complete at the time of inspection.
Rebecca Bauers, CQC’s director for people with a learning disability and autistic people, said:
“When we inspected Ashview we were concerned to find leaders allowed a culture focused on routine, with care that was convenient for staff instead of taking into account people’s individual needs and preferences. This meant that the autistic people and people with a learning disability using the service weren’t always able to live the safe, fulfilling and meaningful lives many of us are able to take for granted.
“For example, leaders didn’t make sure all staff had training to understand people’s needs and sensitivities so they could ensure care was tailored to them to keep them safe and respected their human rights.
“We also saw these risks, as well as people’s preferences, weren’t always included in their care plans, and they or their loved ones weren’t always involved in decisions about their care. We also found people weren’t always supported by staff to pursue their goals or interests, all of which meant their choices and independence weren’t respected.
“Many of these issues were raised to leaders when we inspected last year, and it’s unacceptable that so little has been done to improve this since.
“We’ve issued a warning notice to the service to focus the provider’s attention urgently on making these improvements and won’t hesitate to take further action if we’re not assured people are receiving the standard of care they deserve.”
Ashview has been approached for comment.