Enter and view: Carlin Lodge Care Home

Healthwatch Blackpool undertook an Enter and View visit to Carlin Lodge Care Home on 08 November 2022. They spoke to 15 residents, two visitors of residents, the manager and the cook.  

There is clear signage observed on approach to the building. There is limited parking on the driveway, with roadside parking also available. Carlin Lodge has a well-maintained and decorated garden area to the front of the property. In the entrance to the home, there was hand sanitiser on the wall outside the door and a visitors signing-in book. The front door was locked to ensure residents safety.

Representatives observed staff wearing masks. The home is a registered residential home for 17 older people. The home has 17 rooms, however it is currently occupied by 15 residents.

Carlin Lodge has a variety of board games in the communal area of the home, which are well-used and representatives observed some of the residents playing a game of dominoes. Representatives observed some residents seated and watching the television together. During the visit, a singer arrived and performed some songs for the residents, and this appeared to be popular.

There is a residents’ meeting about 3 times per year and the manager has regular one-to-one chats with residents. Two meetings are held each year for the relatives/friends of residents. There are regular visits to the care home from external professionals e.g. medical practitioners, hairdresser, manicurist.

Observations and feedback from residents suggested that the residents were happy and well cared for overall. Staff were seen to be treating the residents respectfully and with a person-centred approach. The bedroom and communal areas appeared clean and tidy, with comfortable armchair-type seating and seating around tables, which also accommodate eating in a quieter environment.

The report contained two pieces of feedback to which the manager responded.