A Tunbridge Wells care home is failing in three out of five areas, according to a report published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) yesterday.

Inspectors found the safety of the service given to residents at Birkin Lodge Care Home was inadequate, as was the management and effectiveness of staff.

The findings come from an unannounced visit to the facility in February.

It found there were not enough staff on duty to meet people's needs, and some patients did not receive food or drink during the morning of the inspection.

Some staff were found to lack the skills and competencies to assess people's needs accurately.

It was also found that medication at the Camden Park facility was not properly stored, and a number of staff were not fully trained.

One member of staff admitted to inspectors: "I will be happy if our residents receive better care than what we give now, some of them do not get washed till late due to shortage of staff, call bells are not answered promptly."

A Four Seasons Homes spokesman said: "The well-being of people entrusted to our care is our priority and we are very sorry that the care has not been meeting the standards that we expect all of our care homes to provide.

"We are implementing a comprehensive improvement plan that is being overseen by our regional management team.

"We have a new management team in place with the support of a clinical facilitator and visiting deputy manager who are working alongside staff to provide additional training and supervision to ensure that our processes and procedures to support quality of care are strictly followed.

"In addition, we are using a recognised "safe staffing guide" to be sure there are always the right number and skills mix of staff on duty for the needs of our residents. We are committed to deliver person-centred care that meets the individual needs and preferences of each resident and we are reassessing residents' care plans with them and their family members to ensure this is being provided at all times."

"We are implementing a comprehensive improvement plan that is being overseen by our regional management team" - Four Seasons Homes spokesman

Inspectors said there has been a history of non-compliance with the service since September 2014 when compliance actions in relation to infection control and staffing numbers were served.

Advice on these measures was not followed by management.

Soiled linen was not being handed in line with infection control procedures and people did not have individual hoist slings.

Gloves were not worn when changing dressings and one patient's commode was found to have faeces on it after being cleaned.

The inspection was carried out as a response to concerns raised by relatives, a whistle blower, a GP practice and the local safeguarding team.

At the time there were 37 people living at the service, 26 of which required nursing care.

Despite failings, inspectors and relatives said staff were friendly, caring and respectful to residents. However, communication was sometimes an issue because of language barriers.

Fire safety procedures were also well organised.

To compile the report, the CQC spoke with three nurses, care staff, the regional support manager, regional manager and 20 people receiving care and treatment.

To view the report in full, click here.