Enter and view: Annefield House

Healthwatch Derby conducted an announced Enter and View visit to Annefield House on 26 February 2016 to assess the experiences of residents, visitors, and staff. Annefield House is a residential home for adults aged 40 and over with long-term mental health conditions, providing support to help residents develop life skills and move towards independent living. 

The home was found to be clean, safe, and welcoming, with a homely and informal atmosphere. Staff interacted positively with residents, creating a friendly environment with good communication and rapport. Safety measures such as fire equipment, emergency lighting, and clear signage within the building were in place, and residents’ rooms were personalised and well equipped. 

Residents had access to a range of services, including GP support, dental care, and visiting professionals such as a chiropodist and hairdresser. Meals were flexible, with menus displayed and residents able to make choices, and a variety of social activities were organised, including games, outings, and group events. 

Feedback from residents, visitors, and staff was largely positive. Most residents reported being happy, feeling respected, and able to make decisions about their daily lives. The visitor who responded expressed satisfaction with the care, staff friendliness, and overall service. Staff reported that there were sufficient staffing levels, that they felt supported, and that they were satisfied in their roles. 

Some minor issues were identified during the visit. The home lacked clear external signage, which could make it difficult to locate, and there was some confusion about which entrance to use. Additionally, some furniture in the back lounge required repair or replacement, and a suggestion was made to provide clearer signage and a clock for visitors. 

Overall, the report concluded that Annefield House provided a positive, supportive environment with examples of good practice, such as accessible refreshments, clear emergency planning, and efforts to involve residents in activities and decision-making, while recommending small improvements to enhance the service further.