A CARE home has been put into special measures after being deemed unsafe by a health watchdog.

During an unannounced CQC inspection at Oaklands Care Home, of Dunton Hills, Laindon, staff were seen putting people at risk of potential injury. On three occasions staff placed their hands under people’s armpits when helping them to mobilise, which could put too much pressure on their armpits and shoulders.

There was a strong odour of stale urine on the first floor throughout both days of inspection and three relatives told CQC staff they felt duty-bound to visit every day to make sure their family member received enough food and drink. One said: “I worry when I go home.”

Ten people’s bedroom doors were propped open by furniture or equipment such as walking frames, which could compromise people’s safety if a fire occurred, as this wouldn’t prevent the fire and smoke from spreading.

Inspectors also found that a person, who required a pressure mat to alert staff if they moved independently, had their mat left unplugged under the bed.

Although it was found that staff had a good understanding of what to do to make sure people were protected from harm or abuse, comments about staff levels varied. One said: “There’s no one to answer the front door and when staff answer it, it takes them away from the floor and this leaves residents vulnerable.”

One relative told inspectors that staff sometimes make promises which they can’t keep due to short staffing, for example promising to give their family member a shower and then not doing it.

The inspection, which took place on January 23, 24, and February 6, showed improvements weren’t made when things went wrong. Oaklands was deemed as inadequate, being unsafe, ineffective, unresponsive and not well-led. The service was rated as requires improvement for care and will now be kept under review.

A spokesperson for the home, said: “The health, safety and wellbeing of our residents is our number one priority.

“While we are pleased our colleagues were described as “kind” and “friendly”, we were deeply disappointed by the CQC’s overall findings from the inspection. We fell short of the high standards of care our residents rightfully expect and deserve.

“We have immediately implemented a comprehensive action plan. Our highly experienced turnaround manager is working closely with our teams to ensure we continue to maintain improvements.”