A homecare service in Oldham has been placed into special measures by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) after an inspection found serious concerns regarding fire safety, staff training, and premises hazards.

The CQC report revealed that the service lacked fire safety assessments, and two safeguarding alerts were raised during the visit. Inspectors also found hazards such as no carbon monoxide detector, a non-compliant fire door, and mould in the reception area, as well as out-of-date equipment in the surgery room.

Staff training was found to be inadequate, with some employees missing basic life support training and recruitment checks not fully documented. One staff member expressed feeling unsupported and undertrained, particularly when tasked with providing catheter care, having to "figure it out on my own" after raising concerns with management. The service was also criticised for medication errors, where people had not received their medicines.

The quality of risk assessments varied, making it unclear how risks were being managed. A relative raised concerns about their loved one frequently getting bruises, but the family was not always informed. Inspectors noted several areas of the home were worn or unsafe, including missing door fittings and unsecured furniture, though prompt action was taken when these issues were highlighted.

Despite these failings, inspectors acknowledged that staff treated service users with compassion and kindness. Clients said they felt safe, protected, and supported, and families praised the genuine care provided. One family member noted that the care was not "put on as a show."

However, relatives and staff raised concerns about staffing levels, with one person saying that in the lounge, residents had to wait to use the toilet. Personal hygiene was also a concern, as inspectors observed that some individuals needed their hair washed or nails cleaned during the visit.

Elsewhere in Greater Manchester, the CQC inspected an independent mental health service for young people. Leaders were found to have the necessary skills and experience, but blind spots were not sufficiently mitigated, and equipment was not always checked. Staff were praised for their compassion and understanding of individual needs.

A local GP practice received a positive report, with 93% of National GP Patient Survey respondents saying they were treated with care and concern. The practice extended its opening hours to offer more appointments and provided patient transport for those facing access difficulties. Premises were clean, and care was routinely monitored to improve outcomes.

These inspections underline the importance of regular monitoring to ensure safe and compassionate care across Oldham and the wider region. The homecare service now faces strict oversight to address the identified issues and improve its rating.