Enter and view: Dean View Villas

Healthwatch South Tyneside undertook an Enter and View visit to Dean View Villas in South Shields on 3 December 2025. The visit formed part of a wider programme requested by South Tyneside Council’s Quality Team to gather independent feedback from residents and families across eight specialist care homes, with the aim of understanding residents’ experiences and quality of life.

Dean View Villas is managed by Community Integrated Care and supports adults with complex needs, including learning disabilities, autism, sensory impairments, and physical disabilities. The service operates across two joined bungalows, Villa One and Villa Two, and provides accessible living spaces, shared communal areas, and a large private garden. At the time of the visit, seven residents lived at the service, supported by a staff team of 24.

They spoke to two residents.  One resident reported feeling well treated and safe, while another reported that they had not felt well treated or safe due to a past incident involving a staff member, which had resulted in police involvement. That staff member was no longer employed at the service, and the current manager stated she was not aware of the incident. Despite this, both residents said they were happy with their care and support and did not wish to make changes.

Residents described being supported to take part in activities they enjoyed, such as shopping, crafts, card making, swimming, and visits to a beauty salon. One resident expressed frustration that they were no longer allowed to carry out some household tasks, such as making drinks or ironing, which they missed doing as part of their independence.

During the visit, Healthwatch observed a welcoming environment, clean and bright bedrooms, accessible facilities, and a well-equipped sensory room. Staff were described as friendly and supportive, and residents were encouraged to participate in cooking and activities where possible. The manager noted that the service was awaiting delivery of two wheelchair-accessible vehicles to improve residents’ access to community activities and appointments.

Overall, the report concluded that Dean View Villas provided a generally positive environment with supportive staff and meaningful activities, though the limited and inconsistent feedback from residents meant that only cautious conclusions could be drawn. The provider agreed with the report’s findings and welcomed the feedback from Healthwatch.