A residential home for adults with autism and learning difficulties, Merle Boddy House, has been placed under special measures after being rated inadequate for Autism care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The latest inspection, conducted on October 22 and 24, revealed serious concerns, including lack of staff training, failure to investigate incidents of harm, and a “closed culture” among employees.
The home, managed by Mid Norfolk Mencap, can accommodate up to 10 residents, with eight people living there at the time of inspection. The report highlighted unequal care based on funding, where some residents missed out on activities and community access, causing distress and jealousy.
CQC Deputy Director Stuart Dunn stated that leaders failed to safeguard residents from risks like abuse, harassment, and neglect. Additionally, incidents of harm were not fully investigated or reported to the relevant authorities.
The CQC has placed the home under special measures, meaning it will be re-inspected within six months. If no improvements are made, the home’s registration may be canceled, forcing it to shut down.
In response, Mid Norfolk Mencap assured that they are taking immediate steps to improve standards, including restructuring, increasing resources, and providing best-practice training. They aim to ensure better care and support for residents moving forward.
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