Enter and view: Crawfords Walk

This is an enter and view report conducted by Healthwatch Cheshire West 9 August, 2016. During the visit Healthwatch representatives spoke to people, which included a mix of staff and residents. It is unclear if the visit was announced or unannounced.

Overall the home was found to be operating to a good standard. Residents seemed to be happy with the care they were receiving.

Recommendations were made as part of this report. No response from the home manager has been attached.

Summary of recommendations:

- Review all activities and potential activities in relation to residents ‟needs/wishes –particularly as soon as the full Activities Co-ordinators‟ team for the four units is again up and running.

- Activities Co-ordinators to take relevant responsibility in promoting the recruitment of volunteers to assist with activities on all the units.

- If not already followed through, liaise with Age UK(Charity Shop) or e.g. RNIB, Vision Support re loaning of audio books, also see what library services are/can be regularly in place for Crawfords Walk such as the RVS service.

- Assess whether Eastgate is fully viable in the best interest of residents if it is again filled to capacity (37 beds). In particular gauge the most appropriate arrangements?

- Continue to aid residents,wherever possible,to have a real say on menu choices.

- When refurbishment takes place, focus on cheerful, bright and effective visual prompts, photos etc.on all room doors to aid easier identification.

- Ensure wider use and development of personal/family memory boxes, also Twiddle Muffs(to aid restless hands), a great comfort to many residents suffering with dementia.

- Consider deployment of annual awards/prizes to give extra encouragement and acknowledgement to especially outstanding staff and team work e.g.re most improved practice –including good recording and observations.