A CARE home has been rated as good by the Care Quality Commission.

Blackthorns Care Home, in Dooley Road, Halstead, was rated as good in all but one section of the report.

The home’s previous inspection saw it rated as “requiring improvement” after breaches in regulations regarding staffing levels, the management of medicines and the delivery of person centred care but the recent inspection found improvements had been made in each area.

The findings of the report stated: “Staffing levels had improved since the last inspection and there were sufficient staff available to meet people’s needs.

“ It added, however, the service was dependent on agency staff and is still recruiting a permanent staff team.

The report added: “Medicines were well organised, appropriately stored and administered as prescribed.

“Risks were identified and where necessary equipment was put in place to reduce the likelihood of injury.

“Health and safety audits were undertaken and checks made on equipment to check that they were working effectively.

“Staff were trained and inducted into their role but did not always put their training into practice. People had good access to health care professionals when they needed support or treatment.”

Mrs Jocelyn Manuzon Hilario, registered manager, said: "We are very happy and proud with our most recent CQC report. 

"We work very hard here to do everything we can for the residents, and we have strong team who go above and beyond the call of duty every day. 

"Our residents are our inspiration, and we see them as family. 

"As staff, we always aspire to treat the residents how we would like our family treated, and that is part of the reason for our success."

The care home has also recently won a Silver Award in the Halstead in Bloom awards for their work maintaining their back garden, as well as a Horticultural Neighbourhood award.