Enter and view: Seacroft Care Home

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

Healthwatch Lincolnshire visited Seacroft Care Home on 24th – 25th February 2014.

The key findings highlighted areas in relation to patient feedback, staff feedback and observation. Comments by residents and relations were made that we should have made an unannounced visit, as there was evidence that an effort had been made to improve some services that day e.g. a member of staff present in the lounge while we were there. Although everywhere seemed to be well equipped there was a complaint from one resident and which a family member confirmed, that some of the aids they needed and some of the special help required to overcome their particular problems were not forthcoming. They would not have made the progress already seen if the family member had not visited everyday. We did not see any other residents who were confined to their rooms so cannot comment on the quality of care provided and whether staff shortages affected the amount of time staff could spend looking after their needs. There appears to be a real need for more stimulation for the residents, a better meal service and more staff. The long term residents all said everything had gone down hill during the last year and in the past activities, staffing levels and menus had made life so much better.

The report informs Staffing levels need to be reviewed. Access to snacks and fluids in between meal times needs to be reviewed. Improvement in the availability of advocacy services and awareness of them. Review of mealtimes and the provision and delivery of meals. Review of the activities being provided for the residents, specifically around engagement, choice and involvement.