A care home in Reading has been told it needs to improve following a recent inspection.
The Devonshire, a nursing home in Tilehurst providing care to 137 people, was rated as "requires improvement" overall by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in a report published on June 11.
Inspectors raised concerns about fire safety and governance.
The CQC said that while the home was rated "good" in its previous inspection in August 2024, it was now found to be in breach of regulations related to safe care and treatment and good governance during this most recent visit, which took place between February 24 and March 26.
A key concern was the lack of effective fire safety measures.
Some fire doors were found to be damaged or had excessive gaps, meaning they would not provide adequate protection in the event of a fire.
The CQC said this "placed people at increased risk of avoidable harm."
The report also found other health and safety shortcomings, such as broken furniture and equipment that was accessible to residents.
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Not all incidents were fully documented or followed up with appropriate action.
Documentation was not consistently updated following changes in residents’ needs, according to the report.
Audits and checks were not always used effectively to identify and address issues.
The CQC said action plans had been requested from the provider to address the concerns.
While the home was rated "requires improvement" in the areas of safety and care, it was rated "good" for effectiveness, responsiveness, and leadership.
Most people using the service, and their relatives, said they felt safe and well cared for.
One relative told inspectors: "I have no worries, I know [they] will not come to any harm, and I have no concerns with how [they] are cared for."
Staff knew people well, with care provided in residents’ preferred languages.
Communication with families was generally positive.
However, most residents and relatives did not know who the registered manager was.
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Some said they were discouraged from speaking with them unless a formal meeting was arranged.
Activities were available but not always tailored to individual needs or delivered in a person-centred way.
Residents who were cared for in bed had less access to social stimulation than those who were more physically able.
One relative said: "I would hope there could be more activities for residents with dementia."
The home is operated by MMCG (2) Limited and is located on Rodway Road, off Oxford Road.
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