Working at Fern Brook Lodge
Fern Brook Lane, Gillingham, SP8 4QD
Operated by Care South
75 bedsNursing homes
Workplace Score
7.0/10
AI analysis of latest data
Our AI workplace review
PlainSight AI Review
Last updated: 9 February 2026
Score: 7.0/10
Key Finding
"Strong leadership, close-knit team and robust safety practices, although staffing may stretch with expansion and activities lack specialist programmes."
Safety & Risk
8/10
✓
2022 targeted inspection: robust IPC with testing, cleaning, PPE, vaccinations assured effective; per 2020: new incidents process with analysis/learning shared, safe medicines with electronic system
Staff Culture
8/10
✓
Per 2020 comprehensive inspection: improved morale, joyful atmosphere, close team; staff say 'I love the staff here. We're a really close team' and 'staff morale has improved'
Staffing Levels
6/10
✓
Per 2020 comprehensive inspection: enough staff using dependency tool, timely responses, recruiting more ahead of expansion; 2022 report notes measures to mitigate COVID staff pressures
Training & Dev
7/10
✓
Per 2020 comprehensive inspection: induction with Care Certificate, training in dementia, medicines etc., regular supervision, NVQ progression, competency assessments; 'massive push on the training'
Management
7/10
✓
Per 2020 comprehensive inspection: registered manager enthusiastic, accessible with open door policy, walks floor multiple times daily; staff and relatives say 'door is always open' and 'strong leader'
Programmes
6/10
✓
Per 2020 comprehensive inspection: activities lead runs varied programme including arts/crafts, pampering, men's club, musicians, trips, exercises; resident meetings to shape programme
Points to consider
Staffing is enough for current low occupancy using a matching tool, but they plan to hire more when expanding so shifts might get busier.
One relative said, 'Staffing levels are okay at the moment but I think when they fill up they will need some more staff.' The registered manager told us they were recruiting additional staff
Activities have variety with a lead person, but no specialist programmes to make the job more creative and fulfilling beyond basics.
People had the opportunity to participate in various group and 1:1 activities including: visits from local footballers, pampering sessions, arts and crafts, an interactive table for people living with dementia, men's club, visiting musicians, chair exercises and trips out
AI Generated
CQC Inspection Overview
CQC Inspection
Last inspected: March 2020
Good
Safe
✓
Good
Effective
✓
Good
Caring
✓
Good
Responsive
✓
Good
Management Quality
Well-led: Good
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Chat on WhatsAppSources
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) Inspection Data
- PlainSight staff reviews