Three C’s Support, a care provider based on Childers Street in Lewisham, has been downgraded from “good” to special measures after a shocking inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) published on January 8. The report exposed serious failures in care delivery for vulnerable young people and adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs.
The CQC identified major breaches in five critical areas: personalised care, safeguarding, staffing, dignity and respect, and governance. Despite the provider merging with Choice Support in April 2024, the issues highlighted have persisted for several years.
Three C’s Support operates across five London boroughs, including Hackney, Lewisham, Greenwich, Merton, and Newham. However, the inspection found that consistent care and safety standards are lacking throughout these areas.
Leadership at the care provider was described as “poor and inconsistent,” with management failing to properly supervise staff or uphold safeguarding responsibilities. Staff members reported feeling overwhelmed and demoralised due to chronic understaffing and insufficient support. Additionally, inadequate training, including a lack of proper induction and ongoing supervision, has compromised the quality of care provided.
Service users have been let down by arbitrary restrictions and a lack of meaningful activities. Relatives of those in care expressed concerns that staff “don’t seem to stay,” indicating high turnover and instability in caregiving.
The inspection also revealed mixed cleanliness standards across the provider’s properties, with some environments posing serious health risks. Record-keeping was found to be sloppy, and poor collaboration with health and social care agencies further endangered vulnerable clients.
In response to the report, Three C’s Support has initiated a detailed improvement programme and voluntarily suspended services in one borough. However, critical safety and quality improvements have yet to be fully implemented. As a result, the provider has been placed into special measures.
The CQC stated, “Special measures provide a framework for enforcement and a strict timeframe to improve inadequate care.” This verdict underscores the urgent need for action to protect some of London’s most vulnerable residents from harm.
Originally published by UKNIP.
