Severn Heights care home on 'road to recovery' after tough year

Severn Heights in Callow End was stopped from admitting new residents following an inspection by the NHS and the county council.

And it has been given a rating of Requires improvement by the CQC (Care Quality Commission) following an inspection in July.

The report, published on September 2, said improvements had been made at Severn Heights since the CQC’s last visit in November 2022.

Shelly Andon says things are looking up again for the care home

But inspectors found residents’ medicines were not always being managed safely and administered as prescribed.

And environmental risks such as trip hazards had not always been identified.

Shelly Andon, the operations director for Ablegrange, the company that runs Severn Heights, said the care home is working with the authorities to return to a ‘good’ rating.

“We have a new manager in place, we are open for admissions again and we are co-operating with all the people who regulate us,” she said.

“We hold our hands up but nobody has been put at risk.

“Some of the medicines, such as laxatives, are to be given as required - and residents with the mental capacity have the right not to take them.

“Many residents have capacity and are usually able to communicate their need or desire for such medications.”

Much of the CQC’s report is positive, with residents telling inspectors they felt safe and had a good rapport with staff.

Relatives said they felt their loved ones were safe and happy in the home, which provides personal and nursing care for up to 48 people.

READ MORE: South Hayes Care Home, Worcester placed in special measures by CQC

Inspectors felt there was an “open, inclusive and empowering” culture at Severn Heights and that there were positive relationships between the manager, staff and residents.

Mrs Andon added: “Severn Heights has had a tough 12 months, but is on the road to recovery.

“Sometimes it is hard as a provider when you receive advice from several sources on how to comply with our statutory duties, but we feel that by keeping communications open and transparent we will improve the service and get back our good rating.”