Enter and View: Ellis House

Healthwatch Staffordshire undertook an enter and view visit to Ellis House on 13 November 2024. It

 is a small, discreet facility nestled among neighbouring community properties. The building has been adapted to meet the needs of its residents and is furnished to accommodate them, presented in a minimalistic manner to provide ample space. Overall, the environment is clean and tidy, with no unpleasant odours. Each individual room is customised for its occupants and well-maintained; however, some areas of the paintwork and communal furnishings could benefit from refurbishment due to wear and tear.

 The atmosphere is comfortable, featuring well-equipped communal areas and nicely furnished resident rooms. While maintaining the standard of personal care can be challenging, it is prioritised by the staff, residents' families, and professionals. All residents are well-groomed and receive personalised care tailored to their specific needs. 

During my observations, Healthwatch noted one resident not enjoying their evening meal, but overall, the menu offers sufficient options and choices. The one-to-one activities are also well-received, and family members expressed no concerns regarding these interactions. The facility takes thoughtful finishing touches into account; for example, it organises activities or events based on personal preferences, public holidays, celebrations, and considers individual phobias, beliefs, likes, and dislikes. 

Healthwatch discovered that before a resident moves in, an in-depth care and support plan is developed involving management, the resident, a relative or advocate, and any other relevant professionals. This process enables the service to create a customised care package that empowers the residents, provides them with choices, fosters inclusivity, and helps build relationships to support individual thriving.