Stoneleigh House in Oldham Faces Ongoing Concerns
Stoneleigh House, a care home on Cooper Street in Oldham, has received another 'requires improvement' rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The home had previously been found in breach of legal regulations in 2025, and while some improvements were noted, breaches were again identified during the latest inspection.
Inspectors reported 'ongoing concerns' over medicine management, particularly regarding time-sensitive medicines, medicine records, stock balances, and guidance for 'as required' medications. Areas of the home were found to be 'not very clean,' with dirty skirting boards, splashes on walls, dusty and dirty radiator covers, and a sticky handrail. Some of these cleanliness issues had been flagged months earlier and addressed, but they had reoccurred by the time of the CQC visit.
Despite these issues, residents said they 'felt safe' at the home. One resident told inspectors: "I've been living here about 11 months. I feel safe and happy here with all my friends." Staff were recruited safely, and residents felt there were 'always' enough staff on shift to support them.
Meadway Court in Stockport Criticised Over Staffing and Care
Meadway Court, a care home in Bramhall, Stockport, also received a 'requires improvement' rating. The service was criticised for medicine management, with medications not always given in line with instructions. For example, medicines that should be taken before eating were given at the same time as those that should be taken after eating. One resident missed several doses of their inhaler because none was available, and medications were not accurately documented in care plans, increasing the risk of unsafe care.
Inspectors found that a resident had a 'significantly low body weight' but was only referred to a dietician after the CQC raised concerns. Staffing levels were insufficient to meet residents' needs. Inspectors had to intervene to stop a resident scalding themselves because no employees were immediately available to assist. There were also 'extended' delays in residents receiving assistance after using call bells. One relative noted that there were actually more staff working during the inspection than usual.
Not all staff were up to date with training, and some 'lacked sufficient knowledge in key areas, such as moving and handling and how to respond to people who may communicate through their behaviour.' Care plans were not always followed, including in monitoring weight, supporting adequate fluid intake, and providing appropriate continence care. One resident required a modified diet due to choking risk, but conflicting information existed in their care plan about food consistency.
Despite these issues, residents told the CQC staff were 'helpful,' 'kind,' and 'well-intentioned,' and they felt 'safe' at the service.
Response from Borough Care
Borough Care, which runs Meadway Court, expressed disappointment with the outcome and fully acknowledged the concerns. Director of care Lisa Morehead said: "We want to reassure residents, their families and the wider community that the CQC did not identify that any resident had been harmed or negatively affected by the concerns raised during their inspection. As with all of our homes, we continually review our processes and look for ways to strengthen the quality of care we provide."
She added: "Around the time of the inspection, work was already underway to enhance our medicines recording processes and quality assurance systems. We have continued to build on this work, implementing further improvements to strengthen oversight and ensure we consistently meet every standard expected of us. The safety, wellbeing and dignity of our residents remain our absolute priority."
Positive Ratings for Other Services
In contrast, several other Greater Manchester healthcare services received 'good' ratings. Homecare For You Rochdale, a domiciliary care service, was rated 'good.' Inspectors found risk assessments were completed and reviewed regularly, and most people received care visits on time. One user said: "Three of them (carers) are like my little treasures." A relative added: "The staff go beyond and above what's needed."
Oaklands Hospital in Salford, operated by Ramsay Health Care UK Operations Limited, was rated 'good' across diagnostic imaging, medical care, and outpatient care. Patients said they 'always felt fully informed' and described their care as 'excellent' and 'amazing.' The Gill Medical Centre in Worsley was also deemed 'good,' with 91% of patients feeling their needs were met. The surgery received a 99% score in its most recent infection control audit.
The Village Surgery in Altrincham was rated 'good,' with 93% of patients saying they would recommend the practice. Urmston Group Practice also received a 'good' rating, with 92% of patients feeling treated with 'care and concern.'
