Enter and view: BrainKind Neurological Care Centre, Preston

Healthwatch Lancashire undertook an announced enter and view visit to the BrainKind Neurological Care Centre on 18 March 2025.  They spoke to 11 people.

The building has three floors and supports people with long term neurological needs in a residential setting and short term with a rehabilitation function. All three floors are similar in layout with bedrooms, bathrooms and communal areas. The main reception area has a large area with seating and advice boards with what was happening within the centre. There is also a coffee bar for visitors and community groups to meet and help themselves to drinks. 

Staff were observed to be kind and courteous towards people using the service and visitors during the visit. Staff were speaking to people and supporting them around the centre. One activity was observed during the visit which was a quiz in the social hub with four people participating and five staff supporting. People were observed to be supported in the gym area with exercises and conversations with relatives about their progress was observed. 

Overall feedback from people using the service was positive with them commenting on the care they receive, the range of activities on offer and the support that they receive from all staff. Some recommendations made by people using the service included reminders of activities taking place on the morning and more one to one activities. 

Relative feedback was also positive with comments around the quality of care and how they like the visiting times being so open. One suggestion was around the relative meet ups which they do find productive but they felt it would be beneficial to have a member of staff in the meeting Another relative suggestion was to have a split meeting for people who are there for rehab and another for those who are there for long term residency. 

Overall staff feedback was positive with many staff working at the centre for many years. Staff spoke about how supported they feel and how the training they receive is thorough. A recommendation made by staff was around the outdoor area and changes that can be made to improve this to encourage people using the service outdoors and engaged.