A GP practice in Deane has been told to improve – after inspectors found 'hazardous' blinds in the surgery.

Orient House Medical Centre has received an overall 'requires improvement' rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Inspectors criticised the surgery in Wigan Road for its looped window blinds cords, which have been deemed dangerous to young children.

Inspectors said in the report: "Blinds at all windows in the surgery did not meet safety requirements and were potentially hazardous due to them having a loop system in place."

A change in the law in 2014 saw EU safety regulations for blinds and shutters tightened up following a reported 27 fatalities since 1999 in the UK where babies and young children have become entangled with the cords and chains.

Blinds must have no operating cords and chains or have concealed or tensioned cords.

The EU has also banned the installation of cords and chains which create a "hazardous loop" in places where children aged up to 42 months are likely to have access or be present.

Where they are installed, they must have a visible warning.

Orient House was rated as requiring improvement for safety and effectiveness, but was rated 'good' for its care, response to patients needs and leadership.

The medical practice cares for 3,111 patients and was visited by the CQC in June.

Inspectors also found no evidence of full and necessary employment checks for new members of staff, induction or annual performance reviews, or comprehensive records of training.

An inspection in August last year found the practice required improvement in all areas except for care, which was rated 'good'.

Since then it had improved to a 'good' rating in responsiveness and leadership with a new practice manager expected to start the day after the inspection.

The report added: "During our inspection we observed that members of staff were courteous and helpful to patients and treated them with dignity and respect.

"Results from the national GP patient survey showed patients felt they were treated with compassion, dignity and respect. The practice was above average for its satisfaction scores on consultations with GPs and nurses.

"The lead GP told us they prioritised safe, high quality and compassionate care. Staff told us the lead GP was

approachable and always took the time to listen to all members of staff."