Enter and view: Alver Bank Care Home

Healthwatch Lambeth gather information on people’s experiences of health and social care services and there are times when it is appropriate for Healthwatch Lambeth to see and hear for themselves how services are being delivered: these visits are called ‘Enter and View’, they are not inspections.

Healthwatch Lambeth visited Alver Bank Care Home on Thursday 17 April 2014.

The summary of findings highlighted areas in relation to patient feedback, staff feedback and observation. Healthwatch Lambeth found that residents and their families believe that people living with dementia at Alver Bank are safe and appear satisfied with the care they receive. Often people with dementia find it difficult to make friends and take part in collective activities. Although the team were not able to talk with the Activities Co-ordinator, we observed staff responding sensitively to the needs of different residents and noted that residents who prefer to sit back and watch were able to join in group activities as and when they chose.

Healthwatch Lambeth recommend that the Activities Co-ordinator and staff should review the existing visual memory aides around the building to identify whether they need refreshing. As and when residents begin to become confused about where their room is, staff should discuss with them and their relatives what pictures or symbols they would easily recognise to identify their rooms. When considering options for new furniture purchased for the lounge areas, thought should be given to ensuring that the furniture colour contrasts with the colour of the walls and the carpet. Staff should consult with residents with impaired sight about whether they would like to have the opportunity to have audio books and if so, assist them to join the local library. When difficulties arise in respect of residents’ finances who are subject to Lasting or Enduring Powers of Attorney, the Manager should also contact the Office of Public Guardian which monitors and regulates these arrangements