The Woodlands care home in Meols, Wirral, has been rated “inadequate” for the second time by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection that uncovered bathrooms “heavily soiled with faeces and urine.” The home, which provides accommodation and personal care to up to 16 older people and those with sensory impairments, was found to be in breach of four legal regulations.
Inspection Details and Breaches
The inspection took place between March 3 and April 8, 2026, prompted by concerns from a previous assessment. The CQC found the home in breach of regulations concerning safe care and treatment, good governance, person-centred care, and dignity and respect. The report stated: “People were exposed to harm because the provider did not ensure a safe, clean or well-maintained environment.” It also noted that infection prevention and control was poor, environmental hazards were not addressed, and medicines were not always managed safely.
Specific Failings
Andrew Peck, CQC deputy director of operations for north-west adult social care, highlighted repeated injuries and falls among residents with little follow-up or communication to relatives. Records showed one person had repeated falls resulting in fractures, and a safeguarding referral was only made after local authority intervention. Environmental hazards included a broken radiator with an exposed wire, flooring trip hazards, broken furniture, loose plug sockets, and visible nails. Communal bathrooms and equipment were heavily soiled with faeces and urine, pressure cushions were visibly dirty, and furniture was stained with food debris.
Regulatory Action and Special Measures
The service remains in special measures, meaning it will be closely monitored by the CQC. The regulator has begun regulatory action, which The Woodlands Care Home TWCH LLP has the right to appeal. Peck added: “We have told leaders where we expect to see rapid, and continued improvements and will continue to monitor the home closely to keep people safe.” Despite the failings, relatives and residents spoke positively about staff, describing them as kind and hardworking but let down by a lack of support from leaders.
