Enter and view: Poplars Nursing Home

Healthwatch Sandwell undertook an enter and view visit to The Poplars Nursing Home on 4 September 2025.  

Key findings

• Environment:
  • Exterior and gardens were well-maintained, and secure entry systems in place.
  • Interior was clean, odour-free, and well-lit; the décor mismatched but functional.
  • Refurbishment was underway, introducing colour-coded zones, murals, and memory cues for dementia support.
  • Some hazards were noted (trailing wires, mobility aids stored in communal areas).
• Care and Services:
  • Person-centred care plans were developed with families; daily updates recorded via an online system.
  • Residents had access to health services and retained their own GP
• Accessibility and Inclusion:
  • The building has good physical accessibility (ramps, lifts, handrails).
  • There was dementia-friendly signage and colour coding;
  • There was also support for visual impairment and language diversity (Punjabi, Polish, Russian).
  • All staff had been trained in learning disability and autism care.
• Resident Experience:
  • Residents gave positive feedback on food, activities, and staff friendliness.
  • Residents feel safe, listened to, and involved in decisions.
  • There was a wide range of activities offered; music sessions were particularly popular.
• Staffing and Leadership:
  • The staff formed a stable team, with no agency staff
  • Strong leadership was in place, alongside good communication and support systems.