Last updated: 9 February 2026
"Good training and a positive culture where staff feel supported, but staffing shortages at weekends and inconsistent care records are major concerns."
Some people’s care records contained inconsistent information or missing detail. This placed people at risk of harm as staff did not have reliable information on how to mitigate risks in people’s care... breach of Regulation 17, Good governance.
Staff were positive about working at Orchard House Care Centre and said they would recommend it as a good place to work. They felt supported by the management team and felt their views, opinions and suggestions would be listened to.
We received mixed views from people and relatives in relation to the staffing levels... 'At weekends it’s difficult to get anyone... I have to wait for them to take me to the toilet.' We checked the recruitment records of three staff and could not be assured all the required pre-employment checks had been effectively completed... breach of Regulation 19.
Review of the training matrix demonstrated appropriate training was provided in a timely way. Staff told us they had received appropriate training and felt confident in their roles.
Leaders were not always alert to issues that may affect the quality of people's care. We identified two breaches of regulation relating to unsafe recruitment practices and a lack of clear records for staff on how to mitigate risks in people’s care.
We observed some group activities taking place on the ground floor. These included chair exercises, a book reading session and a religious service. We saw evidence of other activities, including trips out, arts and crafts and gardening.
Not enough staff at times like weekends so call bells go unanswered and people wait for help, plus gaps in job checks when hiring new staff.
We received mixed views... 'At weekends it’s difficult to get anyone. I thought it was because they didn’t like me, but it’s generally like that. I have to wait...'; Within 2 recruitment files there where long gaps in employment which had not been identified... breach of Regulation 19.
Care records often inconsistent or missing details so staff lack clear guidance on managing risks like choking or falls.
We reviewed 9 people’s care records and identified some contained inconsistent information or lacked detail... their choking risk assessment and care plan detailed different food textures... clear guidance was not always recorded... breach of Regulation 17.
Managers missed problems like poor records and hiring checks through their audits, so issues built up unnoticed.
These concerns had not been identified or addressed through the service’s audits... Leaders were not always alert to issues that may affect the quality of people's care... two breaches of regulation.
AI Generated
Last inspected: December 2024
Management Quality
Well-led: Good
Direct feedback from current and former employees

Scan the QR code or tap the button to chat with us on WhatsApp. Your identity stays completely anonymous.
Chat on WhatsApp