A CARE home has been told to take action after a watchdog found it was failing to meet essential quality and safety standards.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) have published their findings following a visit to The Mellows, in Loughton, in September.

The Station Road home, which provides care for the elderly and people with dementia, was found to be falling short of four of the seven essential standards assessed.

Inspectors found shortfalls in cleaning standards were placing residents at risk of infection and the home was failing to provide a choice of suitable and nutritious food and drink.

They also found staff were failing to keep residents’ personal records safe and confidential and that patients were not being involved in the planning of their care.

The report said: “One person's care plan detailed their medical needs but did not include evidence of their involvement, choice or independence.

“This was a concern as the person told us they wished to return to their home once they had regained their health.

“There was no hand washing facility (liquid soap and paper towels) in people's en-suites for staff use when providing personal care. This did not ensure that the risk of infection was minimised. 

“We saw from a person's daily record that they had refused their medication by 'spitting it out'. It was not possible to establish if the medication was then disposed of as no other record was made of the incident.

“The medication was to manage a serious mental health condition and to reduce anxiety and aggression.

“People were not protected from the risks of unsafe or inappropriate care and treatment.”

The CQC has asked the home to provide a report within 14 days detailing the action it plans to take.

The Guardian has approached The Mellows and is awaiting a response.