Enter and view: Altham Meadows

Healthwatch Lancashire carried out an Enter and View visit to Altham Meadows, a combined NHS and social care intermediate care facility providing short-term assessment, rehabilitation and residential support for people discharged from hospital or at risk of admission. Representatives spoke with seven clients and five staff members and observed the environment, care, activities and food provision. The service was described as one of the first fully integrated health and social care units in the Lancaster and Morecambe area and received an overall Green rating.

Representatives found the environment to be clean, modern and well maintained following recent refurbishment. The facility included communal lounges, a conservatory, rehabilitation gym, therapy kitchen and accessible outdoor spaces. Clients generally described the environment positively, commenting on the cleanliness, comfort and welcoming atmosphere. Staff and clients both highlighted the benefits of the integrated model, with social care and NHS professionals working closely together to support recovery and rehabilitation. 

Feedback about care was overwhelmingly positive. Clients praised staff for their kindness, support and professionalism, with many describing Altham Meadows as a much better experience than staying in hospital. Several said they viewed their stay as an important step towards returning home and appreciated the personalised rehabilitation support. Staff also spoke positively about integrated working, training opportunities and the focus on person-centred care.

The main concern raised by clients related to food. While meals met nutritional standards and were externally provided, many respondents felt there was insufficient variety and choice. Some described meals as repetitive and similar to hospital food, with repeated complaints about limited dessert options. Several clients preferred to supplement meals with food brought in from home. In response, the provider confirmed that menu reviews were underway and that dietetic advice had been obtained to ensure nutritional quality.

Representatives also identified some practical issues relating to access. Parking shortages caused difficulties for visitors due to the number of professionals and assessment centre users attending the site. External signage and publicly available information about the facility were also found to be unclear and in need of updating. Management advised that additional parking spaces were planned and that steps were being taken to improve information and contact details. 

Overall, Healthwatch found Altham Meadows to be a highly positive example of integrated health and social care. The report highlighted strong staff morale, effective multidisciplinary working, good rehabilitation support and positive client experiences. Recommendations focused on improving food choice, signage, public information and parking arrangements while maintaining the high standards of care and support observed during the visit.