Enter adn view: Whitby House Care Home

Healthwatch Cheshire West conducted an unannounced Enter and View visit to Whitby House, a purpose built 36 bed Care Home. on 20 May 2014.

The layout of the establishment is on two levels, a ground floor and first floor. The corridors are fairly narrow with bedrooms off. On the website it stated there were 36 en-suites. This was found to be an error as there were no en-suites in any of the bedrooms. The manager told the visiting team this would be amended on the website. The establishment is presently undergoing a refurbishment programme in some bedrooms and other interior areas. The Enter and View Authorised Representatives were told that the lounge furniture is also scheduled for replacement.

The visiting team noted that although the building appeared to have some shortcomings due to its age and design, the residents appeared comfortable, well-supported and looked after. There was good staff and resident interaction during the visit.

There were two small dining areas, both of which only seat eight residents at each sitting per area. This did not allow for the possibility of increased numbers or for all residents dining together on special occasions. The visiting team were informed that many of the residents chose to eat in their rooms or, due to personal care needs, had to be supported with meals in their rooms. One of the dining rooms is divided to accommodate hairdressing provision. The recommendation made in the report is to offer the option of larger numbers of residents to dine together, as this can be a very interactive and social occasion. This would enable more choice in a residential setting, for residents and their families. Also the investment of en-suite provision in the larger bedrooms, which are being refurbished, would further support the resident’s needs and wellbeing.

There is no provider response contained within this report.