A HAMPSHIRE care home that failed to complete background checks on staff has been slammed by watchdogs.

Old Alresford Cottage in Alresford, Winchester, has been given an overall rating of 'requires improvement' in its most recent CQC report, published on August 27.

The inspection, which took place in May, found that two out of five categories - 'safe' and 'well-led' - required improvement, but the other three were rated 'good'.

Inspectors recorded that three requirements of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) 2014 had not always been met.

For example, we found for four staff members that there were gaps in their employment histories.

This meant the provider was not able to consider whether the applicant's background impacted on their suitability to work with vulnerable people.

For two staff members, inspectors said they found "satisfactory evidence" of conduct in previous employment in relation to health or social care could not be evidenced by the provider.

The failure of the provider to not obtain a full employment history of staff, or evidence of conduct in employment, is a breach of Regulation 19 schedule 3 as the provider had not obtained a full employment. history of staff of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) regulations 2014.

Inspectors found that risks to people were mostly recorded in their care plans, but care plans and risk assessments relating specifically to health did not always contain sufficient clarity of detail to enable staff to carry out support safely.

For one person identified as at risk of choking, their care plan relating to nutrition and hydration did not "provide sufficient guidance to support them safely".

Residents and their relatives told inspectors that they felt safe and happy with the provider.

One person said: "Very safe, it is comfortable here. Very comfortable."