STAFF and residents are celebrating after a care home in Earls Colne received a positive rating following an inspection from a healthcare watchdog.

Colne House Residential Care Home, in Station Road, maintained its rating of ‘good’ following a routine visit from the Care Quality Commission.

Inspectors attended the home, which cares for people suffering from dementia and other mental health conditions, in May and rated both the overall service and four of five key categories as ‘good’.

The home’s ability to be caring was highlighted by the staff’s capability to protect patients from harm, while the practice’s close working relationship with GPs, dieticians and other healthcare professionals also impressed inspectors.

The home’s responsiveness and leadership was also praised.

One resident told inspectors: “All the staff are lovely – I am very happy here.

“They look out for you, always checking you are all right.”

There were some concerns about safety, such as unsecured wardrobes, and corrosive bleach was found stored in an unlocked cupboard accessible to the home’s patients.

Action is said to have been taken immediately to improve both of these issues.

Care home manager Sue Moreby said: “I am thrilled by the outcome.

“It’s been a real team effort and I am proud of all my staff for working so hard to once again achieve a good rating.

“It reflects what the community and health professionals think about us. We are proud to be highly regarded as a friendly home offering really good person-centred care.”