Concern has been expressed over the lack of information about failings at a Kirkcudbright care home.
The Care Inspectorate recently found Merse House was “not operating in accordance with the regulations” and a proposal may be made to cancel its registration if improvements weren’t made.
The News understands that many locals were only made aware of the problems when media reports began to circulate.
When asked for comment, Dee and Glenkens Councillor Dougie Campbell said: “Like many, I only learned about the inspection notice served on Merse House when an article appeared in the media.
“ I’m really concerned that local councillors were not made aware of this worrying development by the NHS or council.
“The residents of Merse House are our constituents.
“Another worry is that the health and social care partnership decided earlier this year to purchase beds in local care homes, including five in Merse House.
“This was to relieve pressure on the NHS – including providing end of life care, when folk are at their most vulnerable. Despite concerns, both I and the action group were assured that the care homes selected were a suitable environment.
“I also share community concerns about the care of residents at Merse House – particularly when the Care Inspectorate identified issues in relation to cleanliness and adequate provision of food and hydration.
“I will be meeting the council’s chief executive this week to discuss my concerns.”
A spokesman for Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership said the Care Inspectorate decision was being taken “very seriously”, with an incident management team featuring NHS and council staff having been formed.
He added: “At this point, the IMT will carry out an assessment of the situation, and will seek immediate evidence and assurance that residents are safe and being cared for, and that the independent care home owners/operators are working to deliver those improvements.
“Welfare of the residents is the prime consideration.
“An Improvement Notice results from an unannounced inspection, and while significant is not altogether uncommon. As per established protocols, if there is an indication that the improvements will not be delivered then the situation will be brought to the attention of all relevant stakeholders, including elected members and media. We are not in that position in respect of Merse House.
“Elected members will have recently received an assurance from the local authority that the senior team and the care home tactical team have acted entirely appropriately and in line with established processes in the circumstances with regards to the improvement notice.
“Admissions to a care home are suspended while an improvement notice is in effect.
“Similarly, we would not enter into new, innovative contractual arrangements with any care home which is subject to an improvement notice until such point that we are satisfied the required improvements have been achieved and sustained.”