Saffrons Care Home

The following is CQC's published account of its assessment, published 1 July 2026. References to “we” mean CQC. It describes findings at that time.

Date of assessment: 22 April to 30 April 2026

Saffrons Care Home is a residential care home for up to 18 older people. At the time of inspection there were 18 people living at the service. Accommodation was provided over 3 floors, all of which were accessible by a lift. This inspection was prompted by the age of the previous rating. At our last inspection in January 2019, the service was rated Good, at this inspection it has changed to Requires Improvement.

People’s care plans and risk assessments did not always reflect their assessed needs. Additionally, people and their relatives were not actively involved in developing and reviewing care plans. People were not always involved in making decisions about their care. Assessments of mental capacity lacked robust evidence and information to support informed decision making, and best interest discussions had not been recorded.

People‘s food choices were limited and there was a lack of variety. Meals were not always nutritionally balanced or appealing. Audits and quality assurance systems were in place. However, actions were not always followed up. The provider was in breach of the regulation relating to governance. We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.

Staff and the registered manager knew people well and understood their needs, which helped to mitigate risk. People were encouraged to maintain their independence whilst promoting choice of their care. People were treated with dignity and respect. People were supported by a consistent staff team who were trained and competent to carry out their role. Staff and the registered manager worked collaboratively with professionals.

Leaders were visible, knowledgeable and supportive, helping staff develop in their roles.

Staff felt supported to give feedback and were treated equally, free from bullying or harassment. Policies were kept up to date and in line with relevant legislation. The environment was clean, tidy, and free from risk of harm but there had been an active pest outbreak which was in being managed by external pest control services. The provider had invested in the building and working was being taken to improve external and internal appearance.