A ‘homely’ Epsom care home has been rated ‘requires improvement’ by inspectors - improving from inadequate in just four months.

The Care Quality Commission has published its latest report on Epsom Lodge, in Burgh Heath Road, this month (May 1).

The report found some faults with how the service was led, but those being cared for felt ‘safe’.

Epsom Lodge was rated ‘good’ for the caring category; the report said: ‘staff were kind and caring and treated people in respectful and dignified way’.

The service was also described as ‘homely’ and relatives and friends were ‘welcome’ to visit people in its care.

The report added: ‘Staff morale was good and they worked well together as a team. One member of staff said, "The staff team are very good. I'm happy working with my colleagues."’

However, three regulations are not being met:

• The provider had not ensured that complaints were recorded, responded to or addressed in a timely way.

• The provider had not ensured that recruitment procedures to ensure that staff employed were fit and proper.

• The provider had not ensured that staff had appropriate training and supervision.

An Epsom Lodge spokeswoman said: "Epsom Lodge continues its journey of improvement towards outstanding, placing people living at the home at the heart of everything we do.

"We are working in partnership with CQC, Surrey Adult Social Care, faith and community groups and all stakeholders in the best interest of our residents.

"CQC concluded that we had made 'substantial improvements'.

"Significant improvements have been made in the way we handle complaints, recruitment and selection and train our staff.

"We have implemented a robust system of governance and quality assurance.

"Epsom Lodge is now led and managed by Pauline King, an experienced manager of residential care homes for older people.

"Epsom Lodge is seeking volunteers to join our dedicated staff team to further develop our person centred service, both within the care home and out in the community.

"We offer day services, short term and long term care in a “homely” and peaceful setting with a team of staff who are caring, kind and compassionate."

Please contact Epsom Lodge on 01372 724 722.