Enter and view: Walker Grange

Healthwatch Sandwell carried out an Enter and View visit to Walker Grange, an extra care housing scheme in Tipton, in June 2026. Overall, the visit found a caring and supportive service where tenants were treated with dignity, respect and compassion. Staff were observed to be friendly, patient and committed to promoting independence, and tenants spoke positively about the support they received. The report highlighted the experience and dedication of both the management team and care staff as a major strength of the service. 

The people living at Walker Grange were generally able to maintain a high degree of independence, making choices about their daily routines, meals, appointments and activities. Staff supported tenants to remain as self-sufficient as possible while providing assistance where needed. Positive relationships between tenants and staff were evident throughout the visit, and many tenants described staff as helpful, respectful and approachable. 

The main concerns related to the condition of the building rather than the quality of care. Healthwatch found that communal areas, toilets, the laundry room, gardens and some décor appeared dated and would benefit from refurbishment. Accessibility issues were also noted, including a heavy garden access door, uneven paving, trailing wires and clutter in some areas. The communal environment was described as functional but not always welcoming, and the report identified opportunities to improve activity provision and make greater use of community links and the on-site minibus. 

Healthwatch concluded that Walker Grange provides good-quality care and support but would benefit from significant environmental improvements. Recommendations focused on refurbishment of communal areas, improving accessibility and safety, enhancing gardens and activity opportunities, and creating a more comfortable and welcoming environment. Sandwell Council responded positively, confirming that refurbishment programmes, accessibility improvements and garden enhancement work were already underway or planned, and that tenants would continue to be involved in decisions about future developments.