Enter and view: Sandhills Court

Healthwatch North Lincolnshire conducted an announced Enter and View visit to Sandhills Court, a Bupa-run care home in Scunthorpe, on 12 September 2025. They spoke to 17 people.  

The home uses the RADAR system to monitor quality and maintain governance standards. Policies were up to date, including infection prevention and control, and risks such as falls are monitored monthly with mitigation such as sensor equipment.

Residents’ health and wellbeing are supported through regular meetings, a quarterly newsletter, and a varied activities programme that includes bingo, quizzes, knit and natter sessions, outdoor events, entertainers, and community activities. Nutrition is monitored through risk assessments and weekly reports. The home maintains relationships with district nurses, GPs, chiropodists, dentists, and eye care providers.

Residents who were interviewed reported feeling safe and well cared for. They described staff as friendly and helpful, and most felt they were not lonely. They enjoyed the food and appreciated having choices, though one resident commented on poor meat quality. While most could participate in activities, some noted limitations around accessing outdoor spaces independently.

Family and friends who were interviewed were positive about the standard of care and the friendliness of staff. They highlighted good food and enjoyable activities such as knitting and bingo.

Staff reported enjoying their work, feeling supported by management, and believing they delivered person‑centred care. However, some wanted more time with residents, more recognition for their work, and better feedback after raising concerns. Staffing levels were generally considered adequate, though one member of staff felt they were not.

Observations during the visit showed clean and well-maintained living spaces, personalised bedrooms, and appropriately presented residents. A few safety issues were noted, including out‑of‑date sauce sachets and unattended cleaning equipment. Dining areas were cramped, and menus and activity schedules featured only written information with no pictures.

Overall, Healthwatch found Sandhills Court to be warm and welcoming with positive relationships between staff and residents. The report recommended adding pictorial menus and activity schedules, regularly checking food items for expiry, and ensuring cleaning equipment is never left unattended. The provider responded that these actions would be implemented or had already been completed.