Enter and view: Myford House
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Healthwatch Telford and Wrekin undertook an announced/unannounced enter and view visit to Myford House on 23 May 2025.
Environment
Visitors found the home difficult to locate due to unclear signage, misleading sat‑nav directions, and a narrow, pothole‑damaged access road. The on‑site car park was full, and one vehicle was obstructing a fire exit, creating a safety risk. Despite access issues, the front garden was well maintained. Internally, the home was generally welcoming, with dementia‑friendly coloured bedroom doors and clear signage, although toilet seats lacked colour contrast and the flooring near the hairdressing room was uneven and awaiting repair.
Essential Services
The home reported excellent links with Dawley GP practice and regular pharmacist reviews. It also offers 13 reablement beds, providing short‑term recovery support. Some family members expressed concern about the standard six‑week reablement period ending too soon.
Access and Staffing
Myford House has a multi‑disciplinary staffing structure, including managers, nurses, care staff, housekeeping, maintenance, medication technicians and an activities coordinator. Agency nurses are used but chosen for continuity. Residents have access to hairdressing via a visiting stylist and a trained member of care staff.
Safe, Dignified and Quality Services
Activities were inclusive, and even typically non‑participating residents engaged during an animal‑themed session on the day. Complaints are handled through an established process, and residents’ weights are monitored with GP involvement when concerns arise.
Information
Staff reported challenges with hospital discharge information, including hospital‑only prescriptions that create medication delays for reablement residents. Care plans within the home were described as comprehensive.
Choice, Involvement and Being Listened To
Residents are encouraged to personalise their rooms, and alternative meal options are always available. Some bathroom adaptations, such as contrasting toilet seats, were inconsistently applied. Residents and relatives are invited to regular meetings, though attendance varies. The activities coordinator tailors activities to personal histories and preferences. Reablement residents receive an information pack on arrival, and staff reported that the home acts on resident feedback where possible