FAILINGS found at a south Durham care home by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) have already been rectified, the owner has claimed.

Tom Chopra said he felt despair after the CQC found Parklands Care Home in Crook failed to meet four national standards covering care and welfare of people who use services, respect and involvement, safety and suitability of premises and requirements relating to workers.

In a report published today (May 22), CQC inspectors identified a number of concerns at the home on Highfield New Road which provides accommodation and personal care for up to 34 older people, some of whom have dementia.

Inspectors found care was not always being delivered in line with individual care plans and that people’s individual needs were not always being met.

They also observed a mealtime at the home next to Glenholme Park and saw that some people needing support to eat and drink were not provided with this support in a way that respected their dignity and independence, the report claims.

Although people living at Parklands were consulted regarding their care, their views and preferences were not always taken into account in the way that their care was being planned and delivered, the CQC said.

On the day of inspection in April building work was in progress to construct a bridge between the older part of the building and the new extension.

Inspectors were concerned that people living at the home were at risk of harm as the works area was fully accessible and there were no warning signs in the area.

Recruitment records for staff employed at the home were incomplete and inspectors were concerned that Mr Chopra had not followed procedures, for example asking potential employees about past education, references or Criminal Records Bureau certification.

Malcolm Bower-Brown, CQC’s director in the North said: “The failings at Parklands are a real concern and we have told the provider where immediate improvements need to be made.”

Mr Chopra told The Northern Echo that the failings have already been dealt with and in 20 years of running the care home this is the first time he has received a complaint.

He said: “Everything has been put right and I have invited the inspectors back to see it.”