Inspectors identify 'improvements' to be made at Morton Cottage

Morton Cottage Residential Home, on Wigton Road, was downgraded from a 'Good rating' following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission on December 18. 

At the time of inspection, 20 people were using the service. 

Inspectors found that "an effective system to manage risk was not fully in place," citing incomplete records relating to necessary safety checks of the building, including fire alarm tests and hot water checks.

Additionally, the inspection found that there were insufficient records regarding the personnel checks for newer staff.

Despite these administrative shortcomings, people and their relatives expressed satisfaction with the staff and the home's environment, describing it as calm and friendly, where they felt safe and comfortable.

The service was praised for its 'positive and person-centred culture', with one resident stating that "the staff are brilliant, they know how to look after us" 

One relative said: "[Person] is the happiest they have been for a long time since moving here."

In a statement from Morton Cottage, a spokesperson said: "We accept the shortfalls found during the recent inspection by CQC. Naturally we are disappointed to of gone from a 'Good' rating to 'Requires Improvement', however, we have already taken steps to address the issues found, and are working transparently with outside agencies to ensure improvements are made where needed. 

"We would like to point out that no element of the issues found during the inspection were relating to the care, safety and welfare of our residents. 

"Our residents and their families are happy with the care they receive from our dedicated and experienced staff team, and this is reflected within the report as it was evident during the inspection. 

"The care and well being of our residents has always been of a high standard, which has never been compromised," they said.