Enter and view: Badby Park

Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook an Enter and View visit to Badby Park Care Home on 1 and 18 December 2015.

The visit found that the home provided a clean, spacious and welcoming environment with a calm atmosphere. Residents appeared well cared for, were treated with dignity and respect, and staff were observed to be attentive, responsive and positive in their interactions. The home specialises in supporting people with acquired brain and spinal injuries, neurological conditions and complex rehabilitation needs, and Healthwatch noted a strong emphasis on holistic care, including occupational therapy, music therapy, psychology and wellbeing support.

A wide range of activities was available, including gardening, music therapy, arts and crafts, outings, visits from therapy animals and themed events. Residents were able to choose where they ate, drinks were offered regularly throughout the day and relatives spoke positively about the care provided. Staff described good training opportunities and positive relationships with residents, although some felt communication between management and staff could be improved.

Healthwatch Northamptonshire concluded that Badby Park provided a high standard of specialist care with many examples of good practice. Recommendations included improving communication channels between staff and management, considering improvements to office working environments, and encouraging staff participation in initiatives such as Dignity Champions and Dementia Friends to further strengthen person-centred care. The provider accepted the recommendations and outlined actions to address them.