Enter and view: Solden Hill House

Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook an Enter and View visit to Solden Hill House on 29 September 2015.

The visit found that the home provided a relaxed, welcoming and well-managed environment for adults with learning disabilities. Residents appeared happy, engaged and comfortable in their surroundings, and staff were observed interacting with residents in a caring, respectful and reassuring manner. Healthwatch noted particularly positive staff support following a recent fire alarm incident, with staff helping residents remain calm and feel safe.

Residents appeared to have a good degree of choice and control over their daily lives and could decide whether to participate in activities or spend time independently. The home offered a structured programme of activities including horse riding, music therapy, cookery, gardening and pottery, as well as opportunities to attend college, go on outings and take holidays. Residents also contributed to meal preparation and were able to choose from Easy Read menus.

Healthwatch Northamptonshire concluded that Solden Hill House was a happy and supportive home with strong relationships between staff and residents and a clear focus on individual wellbeing. Recommendations included updating communal bathrooms, developing the gardens with features such as animals, and strengthening links with the local community through greater involvement of local volunteers.