Creating the right culture within National Care Group

National Care Group are committed to having an open and transparent culture within all our services, and to ensure this, we need to identify the risk factors associated with closed cultures and how to prevent it from taking place. Mike Cleasby, Quality Director, spoke about defining closed cultures and what to look out for as potential warning signs.

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If closed cultures are prevalent within the service, it could lead to potential risk factors including, restrictive practices being used, high staff turnover and lack of openness amongst staff and management.

All these risk factors will have a major impact on the way care is being provided to the individual we support, especially those with complex and challenging needs.

The BBC Panorama programme on Whorlton Hall, Durham, was a clear example of what closed cultures can lead to, and National Care Group were shocked to see what the individuals were subjected to and the appalling treatment that took place.

National Care Group remain committed to ensuring that such practices do not take place at any of our services, with the company constantly monitoring and reflecting on the care we provide and ensure the right people are being recruited and trained to care for the individuals.

Over the past year, National Care Group have launched several key initiatives and processes that would benefit our services in raising any concerns or issues that could potentially be taking place.

From the publication of our Quality Matters briefings to a whistleblowing hotline, necessary measures are in place to make sure staff are aware of the topic of closed cultures and that it remains a priority for the company.