Enter and view: Park Farm lodge

Healthwatch Staffordshire conducted an unannounced Enter and View visit to Park Farm Lodge, an 80 bed frail elderly and Dementia Care Home, on 14 March 2014.

The Enter and View Authorised Representatives observed that the residents appeared content and cared for, suitably dressed and clean. There were no permanent bad aromas and the premises were clean with several examples of redecoration and where necessary refurbishing, including the final commissioning of a new call system throughout the home. Staff appeared focused and positive.

Food is freshly prepared in the home and there is a varied and nutritional menu on offer daily. Medicine management regime appeared robust and safe.

The visiting team found that the home had a new manager, in post for 3 months. The new manager is re-building the service, including taking on new staff, restoring morale, reviewing & updating records, procedures & training, including training matrix. Regular meets with the staff and residents/ relatives are minuted and actions followed up. Following a recent period of fragmented and uncertain local management, there is feeling of confidence in the new manager displayed by residents, relatives & staff alike. The manager is supported in her improvement programme by the company.

The report made recommendations that the cleaning programme each day is not rushed and that the new manager should be allowed to achieve her aims of updating the service and premises.

There is no response from the provider included in this report.