Enter and view: Fairholme

Healthwatch South Tyneside undertook an Enter and View visit to Fairholme, a specialist residential care home in South Shields,  on 17 February 2026 as part of the council’s quality assurance process. The visit was not prompted by concerns but aimed to understand residents’ lived experiences and quality of life.

Fairholme is a 24‑hour residential service supporting up to 21 adults with mental health needs, including people transitioning from long-term hospital care back into the community. The home is located close to South Shields beach and local amenities and offers a range of communal spaces, private bedrooms, and opportunities to develop daily living skills.

Healthwatch staff spoke directly with nine residents using a structured survey, while no responses were received from relatives or friends. All residents reported that they were treated well, felt safe living at Fairholme, and were satisfied with the care and support they received. Although a small number of comments referred to occasional interpersonal tensions or staff being “offhand,” the overall feedback was strongly positive.

Residents described having freedom to come and go and to pursue activities of their choice, most of which took place outside the home, such as walking, shopping, visiting cafés or pubs, and spending time with family. Some residents also mentioned online learning. Most residents felt involved in their care planning, particularly in relation to medication and wellbeing, and those who wanted changes mainly expressed aspirations for more independent living rather than dissatisfaction with current support.

Key observations from Healthwatch highlighted a stable and experienced management team, friendly and approachable staff, and a calm, welcoming environment. The communal spaces were described as spacious and pleasant, and the chef received significant praise for flexibility, meal choice, and food quality. All residents spoken to stated they felt safe, with one summarising their experience as being “in good hands.”

Overall, the report concludes that Fairholme is a positive and supportive home in which residents feel safe, respected, and well cared for. The continuity of leadership and strong staff‑resident relationships were identified as key strengths, and the service was recommended as an example of good practice within the borough. The provider welcomed the findings and reaffirmed its commitment to person‑centred care, positive communication, and supporting residents’ independence and wellbeing