'Serious concerns' over care at young people's home

An improvement notice has been issued due to "serious and significant concerns" about the care being provided to young people at a home in South Lanarkshire.

The Care Inspectorate (CI) said if changes were not made at Duneaton - near Biggar - it could cancel its registration.

Among the improvements being sought are ensuring that effective safeguarding procedures are in place and being followed.

A statement from home operator Common Thread said it took the findings "very seriously" and had already taken action to make immediate improvements.

Duneaton is a care home service for up to five children and young people.

It consists of three houses sharing the same grounds, each with outdoor space.

The CI has set out a range of improvements to be completed by the middle of April and others for the end of May.

They include ensuring staffing arrangements meet the needs of young people, making sure its admissions procedure is effective, protecting the safety of service users and putting better communications methods in place.

It said it understood it would be a "difficult and distressing time" for residents, their families and staff but its first priority was the health and wellbeing of young people.

"We are working closely with partners including relevant local authorities to ensure that young people experience appropriate care during this difficult time," a statement added.

Common Thread provides residential childcare and education across Scotland.

It has expanded from two houses in Dumfries and Galloway to delivering care and education across the Central Belt and the Highlands.

"Our first priority is for the young people in our care, and we appreciate the support of the Care Inspectorate," it said in a statement.

"We will continue to work with them and the relevant local authorities to ensure the requirements are met as we continue to offer specialist residential care services to young people."