And inspectors have now moved to cancel the registration for Dalawoodie House Nursing Home at Dumfries, which is owned by Downing Care and is home to 26 people.
The Care Inspectorate today revealed they have submitted an application to the sheriff court to cancel the provider’s registration
It comes after they carried out unannounced visits in February, April and June and identified significant concerns. They then issued an improvement notice looking for effective management, leadership, and oversight of the care home and improved working practices and care of people in the home.
However, a follow up inspection has found that none of the required improvements were met, and they also found further serious concerns.
A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: “Our inspections have identified serious and significant concerns about the quality of care experienced by residents at Dalawoodie House Nursing Home in Newbridge.
“We understand this is a difficult and distressing time for residents, their loved ones and staff at the home.
“However, our first priority is always the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.
“We have submitted an application to the sheriff court seeking cancellation of the provider’s registration of the care home. This could allow new care arrangements to be put in place for residents.”
They are working closely with partners, including Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership (DGHSCP), to ensure that residents experience appropriate care that meets their needs.
Meanwhile, a DGHSCP spokesman said: “Our paramount concern is the welfare of the 26 residents of the care home and their families.
“DGHSCP has been providing some support and assistance to the care home in recent weeks following the issue of an Improvement Notice by the Care Inspectorate to the care home, and DGHSCP is committed to ensuring that this level of support will continue.
“Although Dalawoodie is operated as a private business, DGHSCP has committed a range of its own professional staff to assist the care home, and it intends to maintain a continued presence in order to provide the necessary support to the care home and oversee the provision of good care to the residents. It will continue to work with the residents and their families and ensure that their needs are met, now and going forward.”
Chief officer Julie White added: “This is an extremely difficult and concerning time for residents of Dalawoodie Care Home and their families.
“DGHSCP’s prime concern in this situation is the health and wellbeing of residents.
“We are maintaining a presence at the care home meantime, to ensure that care is provided at a high standard.
“DGHSCP will be working to ensure residents and families are kept apprised of developments, and that the wider community remains informed.”
Downing Care were approached for comment.