Two Highland care homes have received positive inspection reports from the Care Inspectorate following routine unannounced inspections earlier this month.
The two homes, Innis Mhor in Tain and Eilean Dubh in Fortrose, are part of the Parklands Care Homes group, which operates 13 homes across the Highlands, Moray and Aberdeenshire.
Inspectors spoke with residents, relatives, staff and healthcare professionals as part of the visits.
Innis Mhor Care Home was last inspected in 2024, when it received grade 5 (‘Very Good’) evaluations across all assessed areas – wellbeing, leadership, staffing, setting and care planning. Using a new core assurance inspection system, inspectors confirmed that residents continued to “receive care that met their needs and protected their safety, wellbeing and rights.”
The report found that the service was “well led and managed”, with staff who looked after residents “to a high standard, in a kind and caring manner.”
Inspectors highlighted effective communication with relatives regarding changes to loved ones’ health and care needs. They were also impressed by the sensitive and compassionate way staff supported residents living with dementia.
Relatives, visitors and staff told inspectors that Innis Mhor “felt like a family”, with some highlighting the home’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and wide range of daily activities.
The report also described an “open and transparent culture, with leaders who were visible and acted as good role models.” This supported staff to follow good practice guidance and deliver person-centred care.
One relative, a former nurse, said, “I am confident that my relative receives a very high level of care here.”
The inspection at Eilean Dubh focused solely on residents’ wellbeing, with the home receiving a grade 5 (‘Very Good’). Inspectors said staff provided “kind, respectful care” and noted that residents benefited from “a staff team who worked well together.” The report also highlighted the home’s welcoming environment, effective relationships with healthcare professionals and commitment to continuous improvement.
Inspectors found that residents and families trusted the service and were confident that any issues or concerns would be dealt with and resolved quickly.
One relative described the home as “like a home from home”, while another said, “Mum is very much loved and cared for and has really come out of her shell.”