Nursing home unit shut over claims of poor care

A unit at a nursing home in South Staffordshire has been closed to new admissions after an investigation into alleged poor care of elderly residents.

Staffordshire County Council has launched a probe at Oaken Terrace Nursing Home in Codsall. Council chiefs have banned anyone from being admitted to the home's Henderson Unit until the inquiry is complete.

The owners of the home in Hollybush Lane accepted standards had not been met and said they were working to improve the situation.

Problems emerged after the family of 105-year-old Violet Franklin, originally from Wolverhampton, complained about her care and alleged neglect.

Mrs Franklin's granddaughter Rachael Franklin, who lives in Cheshire, visited her on Christmas Day and said she was upset about the state of her grandmother's room and her hygiene.

She said: "These people are elderly. They don't deserve to be treated in a poor and disrespectful manner. These vulnerable patients need stimulation."

County councillor, Matthew Ellis, cabinet member for adults, said investigators would be working with the family of Mrs Franklin, who remains at the home.

Councillor Ellis said: "An investigation has been launched immediately and no county council placements will be made until the outcome of the investigation is understood."

Jo Shuker, managing director of Interhaze Ltd, which runs Oaken Terrace Nursing Home said the company was "working closely" with the agencies involved in investigating the concerns. She added: "It is self-recognised there have been shortfalls in the service being delivered." She said steps were being taken to address them.

"It is the intention of the owners and all the staff of the home to continue to work hard towards delivering a service suitable for all the residents of the home," she added.