The Oast care home has been told to make urgent improvements

by Anna White

A shocking catalogue of failure has exposed horrendous neglect at a Maidstone care home.

Elderly residents were found unkempt, had their care needs overlooked, and were at risk of harm and infection.

The Oast, in Shepway, has received a formal caution from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) over its treatment of occupants and the state of the building.

The health watchdog discovered pensioners at the £375-per-week detached house had been left unsupervised for longs periods and were living in inadequate conditions.

Some had experienced rapid weight loss, which inspectors suspected was caused by a lack of nutritional meals and choice of food. Others were suspected of being left without enough water.

At least two residents at the 18-bed care home were thought to be suffering from dehydration.

Concerns were also raised about the lack of dignity and privacy. Bedroom doors were left open while people were still in bed.

"it is very unfair and exaggerated…” – owner jasiree nemchand

This is the second warning for owners Balkissoon and Jasiree Nemchand since an unannounced review in October, prompted by social services a month earlier.

Officials arrived unannounced in January and found the couple were still in breach of at least four standards.

Mr and Mrs Nemchand, who took over in October 2008, had until yesterday to meet the necessary alterations. If the problems persist, the home could be closed.

Mrs Nemchand said she strongly disagreed with much of the report and argued changes had been made.

She said: "It is very unfair and exaggerated."

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