Hospital again told to improve by watchdog

A hospital in Leicester still requires improvement after inspectors found that services were understaffed and infection control was poor.

Glenfield Hospital was told by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to improve standards in 2022 after inspectors found long wait times and medical equipment used past its service date.

The latest unannounced inspection, published on Wednesday, focused on cardiac, thoracic, vascular and hepatobiliary services.

Gang Xu, medical director at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said: "Patient safety is our top priority, and we will review the findings carefully to ensure our ongoing improvement work remains focused and effective."

The CQC report, compiled after a visit in June 2025, said the services assessed did not have sufficient numbers of "suitably qualified, competent, skilled and experienced" staff.

According to the report, the risk of infection was "not always prevented and controlled" within theatres, which were not always "clean, well maintained and safe".

Concerns were also raised about the culture of a "minority of staff" in one department, who inspectors said did not consistently demonstrate "clear responsibilities, roles, systems of accountability or good governance".

In total, four breaches of the Health and Social Care Act were found.

However, patient feedback was largely positive, with those interviewed reporting caring staff, strong communication, and a safe environment, although some wished to be kept better informed about when they would be going to theatre.

Inspectors also said the wellbeing of staff at the hospital was sufficiently promoted.

Concluding the report, inspectors said surgery services at the hospital were "good" for being effective, caring, and well-led, and a "requires improvement" score for being safe and responsive.

The government watchdog has now requested an action plan to address the findings.

Xu said: "We welcome the findings of the CQC report, which recognises the kind, compassionate care our colleagues provide every day, alongside the positive experiences of patients.

"The report also highlights areas for improvement, including staffing, equipment management and patient access, and we are taking action to address these.

"Since the inspection 12 months ago, we have strengthened recruitment and retention, waiting list management, and our theatre environment and equipment.

"We continue to focus on supporting an open culture where staff feel confident to speak up."

The CQC said it would carry out a more comprehensive inspection soon, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

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