Enter and view: Barrowhill Hall, Staffordshire

Healthwatch Staffordshire conducted an Enter and View visit on Barrowhill Hall, a nursing home with 70 places caring for adults under and over 65 years with varying needs, on 18th August 2017.

The purpose of the visit was to check on:- the administration of medicine, changes in staffing levels, food and nutrition.

The Enter and View representatives reported:

- externally, the building was accessible and well-maintained;

- internally, the building was clean and clutter-free;

- the Manager states that he over-recruits to allow for holidays and sickness;

- agency staff are used from one agency;

- residents appeared well-looked after and staff appeared to know the residents well;

- regarding medication, the Manager stated additional sheets detailing administration of non-prescribed medication are attached to individual records of prescribed medication records for clarity;

- meetings for relatives are held though attendance is low;

- activity coordinators are employed but none were present during the visit; a calendar of varied activities and outings was seen in reception;

- a choice of food was available at lunch, sufficient staff were available for assistance, food looked hot and appetising, the server was aware of individual preferences, the kitchen staff take account of special dietary requirements, residents’ weight is monitored at least monthly;

- staffing levels seemed satisfactory on the day of the visit.

Representatives spoke to one relative who commented that the home had good staff, provided high standard of care and good food. S/he was uncertain of the complaints procedure.

Staff commented that they enjoyed working at the home.

No recommendations were made. The report stated that a future visit should include/focus on the Churnet building (which houses people with mild dementia).

The provider responded positively to the visit describing the representatives as professional.