Working at Ashlar House
The Plain, Epping, CM16 6TY
Operated by Barchester Healthcare Homes Limited
44 bedsNursing homes
Workplace Score
6.6/10
AI analysis of latest data
Our AI workplace review
PlainSight AI Review
Last updated: 10 February 2026
Score: 6.6/10
Key Finding
"Strong safety practices and supportive management foster a positive staff culture, but minor gaps in recruitment files and standard training need attention."
Safety & Risk
8/10
✓
Staff knew how to raise safeguarding concerns. Risk assessments completed and reviewed. Medicines given safely as prescribed. Incidents reported and lessons shared at meetings.
Staff Culture
7/10
✓
Staff were positive about working at the service. A member of staff said, 'I enjoy working here. We work well together as a team. I get a lot of support from the management.'
Staffing Levels
6/10
✓
There were enough staff to support people's needs. A relative told us, 'Whenever I have been there, there is always at least one member of staff available.'
Training & Dev
6/10
✓
People were cared for and supported by staff who had received appropriate training. 'We have a good induction in place and then staff shadow until they are confident to work independently.'
Management
7/10
✓
The registered manager had the skills, knowledge and experience to perform their role. A staff member said, 'The manager really listens and cares about the staff and people here.'
Programmes
6/10
✓
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: activity organiser showed events on engagement board including Mother's day event, entertainers, church visits, music therapist visited regularly.
Points to consider
Recruitment files have minor gaps like missing proof of address.
Minor improvements were needed to staff recruitment files to ensure they meet the regulations. For example, some staff files did not include staff's proof of address.
Only standard induction and shadowing mentioned, no specialist training or funded qualifications.
Induction training processes promoted safety. The registered manager told us, 'We have a good induction in place and then staff shadow until they are confident to work independently.'
Activities are regular with a coordinator and events like music therapy, but no specialist programmes or innovations.
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: The service now had an activity team... events on the engagement board... music therapist also regularly visited the service.
AI Generated
CQC Inspection Overview
CQC Inspection
Last inspected: November 2023
Good
Safe
✓
Good
Effective
✓
Good
Caring
✓
Good
Responsive
✓
Good
Management Quality
Well-led: Good
Staff Reviews
Direct feedback from current and former employees
No one has reviewed yet. Be the first.
Scan the QR code or tap the button to chat with us on WhatsApp. Your identity stays completely anonymous.
Chat on WhatsAppSources
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) Inspection Data
- PlainSight staff reviews