Enter and view: Acorn Retirement Home

Healthwatch Walsall conducted an Enter and View visit to Acorn Retirement Home in November 2018 providing residential care to up to 18 residents. Observations and semi-structured interviews were used to gather feedback from 4 residents, 2 relatives, and 3 staff members.

Observations included: the building was well signposted but the home had limited car parking for visitors; the internal environment was clean and tidy with a homely atmosphere. Meals appeared to be flexible with alternative options offered to residents. There did not seem to be a range of activities on offer and engagement in activities was low. Residents reported that they were happy with the care they received and that they were able to access treatment from GPs and opticians. They felt they were treated with dignity and respect by staff members. Relatives reported that there could be staff shortages at times. Relatives told representatives that they were kept informed of care plans and communication was upheld. Staff reported that they felt adequately trained to carry out their roles and are encouraged to acquire new skills through additional training.

Recommendations included: Review the provision of a dedicated activities co-ordinator, (even part time), to ensure sensory stimulation and engagement for all residents; Review bathing arrangements to ensure individual resident preferences are respected at all times; Review bathroom refurbishment to wet rooms to facilitate ease of use by residents; Consider implementing more robust signing in documentation; Ensure all residents / relatives are aware of individual details of care plans; and Consider updating infrastructure to include better storage for staff.