Staff and setting shine in Cullen care home report

A Moray care home has received an upgraded rating for the quality of its setting, following substantial investment in the home by its new owners.

An unannounced inspection at Wakefield House in Cullen by the Care Inspectorate found residents to be “very well cared for,” with inspectors noting the high quality of facilities throughout the home and the attentiveness and kindness of the care team.

Wakefield House was acquired by Parklands Care Homes in September 2023 after its previous operator entered administration. The first inspection under Parklands’ ownership, in January 2024, awarded the home a grade 4 (good) across all areas assessed.

Since then, the home has undergone a steady transformation. The latest report maintained the grade 4 (good) rating for support of residents’ wellbeing and raised the rating for the quality of the setting to grade 5 (very good). The report highlighted significant investment in the home’s decor, gardens, and dining areas – with residents actively involved in the redesign of the home.

Residents and families spoke positively about the support they receive, describing the staff as “kind and caring.” Inspectors also noted a strong sense of companionship among residents, a varied activities programme, and regular engagement with the wider community.

Leanne Stephen, manager at Wakefield House, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the team at Wakefield House. They work very hard and always have the residents at the heart of everything they do. This latest report reflects the continued progress we’ve made as a team since Parklands acquired the home.”

The report did note areas for further development, including improving the analysis of episodes of stress and distress, particularly for residents living with dementia - a challenge the leadership team is committed to addressing. 

The Care Inspectorate evaluates care services using a six-point scale, ranging from 1 (unsatisfactory) to 6 (excellent).