The Isle of Wight Council has acknowledged the findings of the Care Quality Commission (CQC)’s latest inspection of Plean Dene Care Home and has already put in place a comprehensive improvement plan to address the areas identified.
The inspection, which took place between July and August 2026, rated the service as Requires Improvement overall, while recognising that the home remains Good for Caring.
Plean Dene, a residential care home for adults with learning disabilities in Shanklin, provides accommodation and personal care.
At the time of the inspection, Plean Dean was home to nine people.
Areas identified for improvement
The CQC inspection identified a number of areas requiring improvement, including person-centred care, risk management, staffing and governance arrangements.
Inspectors also issued a Warning Notice relating to governance systems at the home.
Improvement plan under way
The council accepted the findings in the report and has developed a detailed action plan aimed at delivering improvements across all areas highlighted by inspectors.
Work is already under way to strengthen governance arrangements, review care documentation, enhance staff training and further promote independence, choice and person-centred support for residents.
Gaudion: Our absolute priority
Laura Gaudion, director of adult social care and housing needs, said,
“We are disappointed this inspection did not achieve the outcome we had hoped for, and we fully acknowledge the areas where improvements are needed.
“The wellbeing, safety and quality of life of people living at Plean Dene remains our absolute priority. We accept the findings identified by the CQC and have already taken action to address many of the issues raised.
“Importantly, the report also recognises a number of strengths within the service, including the caring approach of staff, positive feedback from relatives, effective partnership working with health professionals and the commitment shown by the team throughout the inspection process.
“We are committed to ensuring Plean Dene provides the high-quality, person-centred care people deserve and have developed a comprehensive improvement plan to deliver the changes required.
“We will continue to work closely with the CQC, residents, families and staff as these improvements are implemented.”
Strengths noted by inspectors
The report includes positive feedback from relatives, with comments describing the care provided as “absolutely excellent” and praising staff for their dedication, commitment and interaction with residents.
Inspectors also noted examples of kind interactions between staff and residents and concluded that the service remains rated Good in the Caring category.
Next steps
The council will continue to work closely with the CQC and monitor progress against its improvement plan to ensure the required changes are fully embedded and that residents receive the highest possible standard of care and support.
The full report can be read on the CQC website.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
