Swaffham care home to be investigated
AN investigation has been launched into standards of care at a Swaffham nursing home. Care chiefs at County Hall have launched a probe into Iceni House, in conjunction with watchdogs the Care Quality Commission.
The investigation comes after the centre of Swaffham was showered with posters alleging abuse took place at the home, based in Jack Boddy Way, and urging people to contact South West Norfolk MP Christopher Fraser.
A spokeswoman for Southern Cross, which runs the care home, confirmed a nurse had been suspended at the home and stated there was a “voluntary embargo” preventing new admissions.
She also said the firm was in the process of conducting an internal investigation “following an incident involving one of our residents at Iceni House.”
A representative for Mr Fraser’s office confirmed it was aware of the poster campaign, which saw scores of posters put up throughout the town 10 days ago, but said it was yet to be contacted by any members of the public or anyone at the home, which caters for the elderly and those with dementia.
She added that Mr Fraser would investigate the claims if he was approached by his constituents.
James Bullion, assistant director of community care for Norfolk County Council adult social services, said: “We are aware that safeguarding allegations have been made about Iceni House.
“The care and safety of the residents is our highest priority and a safeguarding investigation is ongoing. We are working closely with the care home and the Care Quality Commission so we can be satisfied that residents are receiving the appropriate care.”
New admissions to the 74-bed specialist centre were stopped on March 5, following on from an earlier embargo between May and June last year. Officials also confirmed a team leader at the home was dismissed last September.
The spokeswoman added: “Southern Cross is aware of concerns raised regarding the standard of care at our Iceni House care home in Swaffham.
“We are working with the Social Services and the Care Quality Commission as part of our own internal investigation.”
A Care Quality Commission spokesperson added: “CQC will continue to monitor this service in line with its inspection programme and statutory responsibility and liaise with its partner agencies to ensure the safety and care of residents.
“As is the case with all the services we regulate we will take any further action that we consider necessary if it is found that action is at all required.”
