Enter and view: Hawkhurst Care Centre

Healthwatch Blackburn with Darwen carried out an Enter and View visit to Hawkhurst Care Centre, a 22-bed care home supporting adults with dementia, mental health conditions and older people. The home received an overall green rating and was found to provide a warm, homely and supportive environment. Residents spoke positively about staff and their ability to maintain independence, with comments highlighting opportunities to make their own bed, dress themselves and remain involved in everyday life. Representatives observed positive relationships between staff and residents and a welcoming atmosphere throughout the home.

The environment was described as clean, safe and easy to navigate, with personalised bedroom doors, dementia-friendly signage and a range of comfortable communal spaces. Residents had access to lounge areas, books, games, newspapers and television, while the manager outlined plans to enhance facilities further through the creation of a cinema room, improved activity spaces and expanded use of technology. Staff were observed treating residents with dignity and respect, and residents reported feeling well cared for and able to seek help whenever needed.

Food and mealtime experiences were generally positive. Residents praised the quality and quantity of meals, with some noting that second helpings were available. The chef offered flexibility around preferences and all meals were prepared on site. During the lunchtime observation, staff provided encouragement and support to residents who needed assistance with eating, while maintaining a calm and friendly atmosphere. However, some residents expressed mixed views about menu variety and suggested they would enjoy a wider range of cuisines, including Chinese and Cantonese dishes.

Healthwatch concluded that Hawkhurst was a pleasant and well-run home where staff were committed to continually improving residents' experiences. Recommendations included making better use of outdoor spaces, expanding activity opportunities, displaying weekly activity and menu schedules more prominently, and enhancing the social atmosphere at mealtimes through features such as background music. The report recognised the home's willingness to develop new ideas, including increased use of digital technology, themed activities and greater resident involvement through regular meetings and consultation.