Enter and view: Wyndham House, Minehead

Healthwatch Somerset carried out an enter and view visit to Wyndham House in Minehead on 14 May 2015 to understand residents’ experiences of living in the home and accessing health and social care services. Wyndham House had capacity for 50 residents and was 82% occupied at the time of the visit. Healthwatch spoke with eight members of staff and at least 12 residents, although there were no visitors present during the visit. 

The visit found many examples of good practice. Residents described the food, care and activities very positively, and Healthwatch observed staff providing supportive and respectful care. The home offered a wide range of activities, including trips, themed events, gardening, craft activities, Skype contact with family members, visits from animals and community groups, and opportunities for residents to use their previous skills and interests. The environment was clean, spacious and well maintained, with accessible gardens, a hair salon and developing dementia-friendly features. 

Residents generally had good access to healthcare services, including GPs, chiropody, physiotherapy and rehabilitation support. However, concerns were raised about some hospital discharge arrangements, with the manager reporting occasions when residents were discharged before being ready or when important information was not shared effectively between hospital teams and primary care services. Healthwatch also identified the absence of hearing loop systems as a potential barrier for some residents with hearing loss. 

Healthwatch concluded that Wyndham House provided a high standard of care in a positive and supportive environment. Recommendations included exploring the introduction of hearing loop systems, increasing resident and family involvement in meetings, sharing activity good practice, strengthening community links, and continuing to develop opportunities for residents to remain active and involved in home life.