An Inverness care home, Castlehill Care Home, has made significant improvements following a BBC investigation that raised serious concerns about its operations. The Care Inspectorate, which oversees care facilities in Scotland, conducted an unannounced inspection and found that the home had addressed several critical requirements. These included securing nurse stations and implementing additional checks on medication administration. However, the report highlighted that further improvements were necessary, particularly in infection control practices.
The Care Inspectorate’s findings come after a BBC Disclosure investigation aired in September 2023, exposing a range of care failures. Families of residents reported experiencing “cruelty” and “neglect,” prompting heightened scrutiny of the facility, which is operated by Morar Living and serves as the largest care home in Inverness, accommodating up to 88 residents. Many of those residing there either pay for their care privately or have their fees covered by the state, with NHS Highland contributing nearly £10 million since the facility opened in 2019.
Inspectorate Findings and Required Improvements
In its recent report, the Care Inspectorate confirmed that Castlehill Care Home had met several of the requirements set forth during previous evaluations. Notably, the home has improved the security of sensitive information by ensuring that nurse and staff areas are kept locked. Inspectors also noted improvements in the accuracy of residents’ care notes and that the administration of medication was being monitored effectively, especially for “time-critical” medications.
Despite these advancements, the Care Inspectorate indicated that the home must still enhance its infection prevention and control measures. Inspectors expressed concerns regarding staff adherence to essential protocols, such as regular hand hygiene practices. They have set a deadline of December 14, 2023 for Castlehill to implement these necessary changes.
Undercover Investigation and Resident Experiences
The BBC’s investigation, conducted by reporter Catriona MacPhee, involved undercover research at Castlehill, where she worked as a cleaner for seven weeks during the summer. Her observations revealed alarming conditions, including vulnerable older individuals left unattended for extended periods. MacPhee reported instances of residents sitting in urine-soaked clothing or lying in wet bedsheets, frequently calling out for assistance. One particularly distressing scene involved a female resident who became agitated when male staff members were present during personal care tasks.
In response to the findings, a spokesperson for Castlehill Care Home stated, “We are committed to providing the highest possible standards of care through evidence-based practice and personalised care plans.” The spokesperson also thanked the staff, residents, and their families for their continued support throughout this challenging period.
The revelation of these conditions has sparked a broader conversation about the standards of care in residential facilities, particularly in light of the increasing demand for such services in the region. As Castlehill Care Home continues to address the issues raised by the Care Inspectorate, the ongoing scrutiny from both the public and regulatory bodies will likely play a crucial role in shaping its future operations.
