Care service criticised by watchdog for failing to handle medicine safely

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Living Support 4 U, Union Street, Rochdale.

A care service has been criticised for its handling of medicine by the health watchdog.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said Living Support 4 U was told their safety, responsiveness and management all needed to improve. However, they did receive praise for their care and effectiveness within the service they deliver.

The supported living service in Rochdale, which provides personal care to people living with dementia, mental health conditions, sensory impairments and physical disabilities, was rated as ‘requires improvement’ overall by the watchdog.

The report, from the inspection on 9 June 2023, explained that medicines were not safely managed after observing staff carrying out their day-to-day duties. The inspector also noted that no medication records were being used.

The report went on to highlight that recruitment checks were ‘not always robust to ensure staff were suitable to work with vulnerable adults’. The inspector stated that there was no evidence of any harm done to residents under their care.

This was the first inspection since the service was registered and the report found individuals care plans in need of development. Their end-of-life care offer needed improvement and personal details of patients needed to be in more depth, the CQC said.

Managers were criticised for their systems and processes to assess, monitor and improve the service not being embedded into practice.

Despite this, the inspector found elements of correct practice that they said needed to be built on and heaped praise on the service for their actual care.

“People were treated with dignity, privacy, and respect,” the report published on 8 July said. “People’s independence was encouraged where possible and this was reflected in people’s care plans.

“Staff had received training in equality and diversity, and they were committed to ensuring people were treated well. People told us staff treated and supported them well. People were protected from the risks of abuse and staff were trusted to keep them safe.”

After being contacted for comment, Living Support 4 U in Rochdale stated that all issues highlighted by the CQC have now been addressed and measures are in place.

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter