23.04.12
Assault uncovered in ‘excellent’ care home
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has fallen under further criticism, for failing to take sufficient action following an assault at a London care home.
Undercover filming showed staff atAsh Courtroughly handling one resident, Maria Worroll, and showed care worker Jonathon Aquino slapping her six times. He has since been convicted of assault and was sentenced to 18 months in prison earlier this month.
Prior to the incident, the CQC rated the home as ‘excellent’. All five of the main carers filmed have been sacked, yet the CQC’s report from inspection following this has been criticised for underemphasizing the poor quality of care demonstrated.
The CQC visited the home twice following the assault to assess the quality of care. It concluded: “Ash Courtensures that people who use the service are protected from abuse, or the risk of abuse, and their rights are respected and upheld.”
Forest Healthcare, which manages the home, said the assault was an isolated incident, and thatAsh Courtis “committed to working closely with all families and residents” and that their care is subject to “continual improvement”.
Judy Downey, head of the Relatives & Residents Association, said: “This is really an area where the CQC can do so much if it uses its powers. They can actually cancel the provider’s registration if they’re shown not to be fit. We would suggest that that provider was very clearly shown not to be fit.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]