Enter and view: Crichton Place

Healthwatch Blackpool undertook an Enter and View visit to Crichton Place on 18 and 21 November 2022. They spoke to six residents.  

Crichton Place is known as ‘extra care housing’ which is single occupancy accommodation within a shared site, with a communal garden space. At Crichton Place there are eight separate bungalows, with each being the person’s own home. The housing and personal care support are managed separately.

Representatives were met by a member of staff on arrival. It was clear that the person was under a high level of pressure, though was aware of the planned visit and attempted to accommodate. During the second visit, representatives were met by a member of staff who they believed to be a personal assistant, though the person did not self-identify.

For some residents, there was a sense of dissatisfaction with the care offer being provided. Representatives observed staff supporting residents throughout the visit, but also noticed two residents who were unable to have their shopping support hours on this day due to staffing. However, there was also one member of staff who was not on shift, taking lists and completing the shopping.

It became apparent that resident feedback is regularly gathered, with a resident suggesting it will not make much difference. Resident feedback was mixed, with concerns being raised around staffing and support hours.

Overall, Healthwatch Blackpool had a mixed experience at Crichton Place. Observations and feedback from residents suggested that some of the residents were dissatisfied with areas of the service provided. Staff also verbalised that they had concerns. There was an acknowledgement that they were short staffed, though trying their best. Representatives also observed positive interactions between service users and care staff on both visit days.

Healthwatch Blackpool had four pieces of feedback about staffing, social hours, quality of care and involvement and feedback response. The care home has responded to these observations.