Enter and view: Balmoral Care Home

Healthwatch Sheffield carried out an Enter and View visit to Balmoral Care Home, a service providing residential, nursing and dementia care. Overall, the home made a very positive impression and was described as well run, with staff and residents appearing happy and engaged. Inspectors found good staffing levels, comprehensive staff training and a strong commitment to meeting residents' needs and respecting their wishes. The newly appointed manager was supported by an experienced area manager, and the home was viewed as providing a stable and caring environment. 

A particular strength was the dementia unit, which Healthwatch considered an example of good practice. Staff used detailed life histories, visual prompts and personalised displays outside residents' rooms to promote person-centred care. The dementia unit had achieved the highest level of the provider's internal quality accreditation scheme and featured stimulating displays, themed environments, a garden, conservatory and even resident-managed chickens. Healthwatch recommended extending some of these practices across the whole home. 

Residents reported enjoying a wide range of activities, including knitting groups, outings, gardening, entertainment events and regular social gatherings. A dedicated activities coordinator worked across the home, and residents were encouraged to maintain interests and roles that gave them purpose. Food was highly regarded, with flexible meal choices, snacks and drinks available throughout the day, and dietary requirements catered for effectively. Residents also had regular access to healthcare professionals including GPs, dentists, opticians, chiropodists and pharmacists.

Healthwatch observed warm and respectful interactions between staff and residents, with dignity and person-centred care clearly embedded in practice. Staff received training in dignity, respect and moving and handling, including experiencing some care procedures themselves to better understand residents' perspectives. Recommendations focused on extending personalised care approaches to all units, improving formal involvement of residents and relatives in the running of the home, considering participation in staff recruitment, and making further improvements to outdoor spaces. Overall, the home was viewed as providing high-quality care in a supportive and respectful environment.