Improvements at care home following apology over soiled mattresses

A watchdog has said improvements have been made at a Renfrewshire care home after inspectors had previously found residents were being put at risk of dehydration and malnutrition.

Ailsa Lodge in Bishopton, run by McKenzie Care Ltd, was handed a “weak” grading by the Care Inspectorate (CI) last month.

But during a follow-up assessment, inspectors found changes had been made to the dining experience and staff were “attentive” to people’s needs, according to a fresh report.

And after soiled mattresses and stained armchairs had been unearthed in August, the CI said bosses had bought replacements and redecorated the lounge area.

However, the watchdog stressed steps still needed to be taken to bring infection prevention and control standards up to scratch.

The latest report, laid before the Scottish Parliament, said: “We noted that some improvements had been made to the environment with the purchase of new armchairs, some mattresses, and the redecoration of a lounge.

“The dining experience had improved, new table settings and tablecloths had been purchased and staff were attentive to people’s needs.

“People were enjoying their meals in a pleasant and social atmosphere. We received positive feedback about the home from staff, people experiencing care, relatives, and healthcare professionals that we spoke with.

“Further work was required to ensure infection prevention and control standards were maintained to an acceptable level.

“New care plans had been introduced but had not been fully implemented, and a comprehensive service improvement plan was being developed.”

The CI said it would undertake a further check-up in the coming weeks to monitor progress at the Ferry Road home.

McKenzie Care Ltd previously said it was “deeply sorry” for its failings.

The follow-up report was included in the latest round-up of care home inspections which is laid before the Scottish Parliament every fortnight.

By local democracy reporter Steph Brawn