A COLCHESTER care home has been rated 'good' in all areas following a major turnaround.
The Oaks Care Home, part of Aurem Care, received the rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) during its latest inspection, marking a significant improvement.
The home is currently undergoing a major refurbishment, including new flooring, redecoration, and upgrades to bedrooms, aiming to further enhance the living environment for residents.
Mike Smith, chief executive at Aurem Care, said: "We are incredibly proud of the progress made at The Oaks.
"This achievement reflects the hard work, commitment, and compassion of the entire team.
"The refurbishment will ensure the home environment matches the high standards of care we now deliver every day."
Registered to care for up to 61 people, The Oaks provides accommodation, personal and nursing care for residents with dementia, autism, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, and those in need of end-of-life care.
The CQC report praised the home's progress since its previous inspection, noting that earlier concerns had been addressed through improved leadership, better systems, new management appointments, and a team-wide commitment to change.
Inspectors found that a robust system is now in place for handling accidents, incidents, and safeguarding concerns.
Risk management and medication processes have also been strengthened.
The report stated: "Staff treated people with dignity and respect, and we observed positive and caring interactions between staff and those living at the service."
Residents and relatives also spoke positively about the improvements.
One resident said: "Communication is better now, staff are happier, not working under a cloud.
"The manager saw so much needed doing, they have been honest, up front, and care standards have improved."
A relative added: "I would recommend it.They interact with relatives, ask how we're doing, and they really care."
The CQC confirmed that The Oaks is no longer rated as inadequate in any area and has been removed from special measures.
The inspector stated that "enough improvements have been made" to ensure the home provides safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led care.
Improvements were credited to the appointment of an interim manager, deputy manager, and a new operations team.