Enter and view: Hollands Nursing Home

Healthwatch Bolton undertook an Enter and View visit to Hollands Nursing Home on 22 February 2019.

The visit found that the home provided a warm, welcoming and relaxed environment for residents. The home was clean, well maintained and residents generally appeared comfortable and content. Residents spoke positively about staff, describing them as supportive, respectful and friendly, and Healthwatch observed positive interactions between staff and residents. Residents were also satisfied with the food and felt their dignity was respected, particularly in relation to personal care. 

The report identified strengths in the relationships between staff and residents and the home's focus on supporting independence where possible. However, concerns were raised about a lack of recreational opportunities and stimulation. Several residents reported feeling lonely, particularly those unable to leave their rooms or take part in activities outside the home. There was limited entertainment available, and some residents expressed a wish for access to televisions, radios, computers and Wi-Fi. Concerns were also raised about occasional staff shortages and one resident reported issues with personal laundry being returned. 

Healthwatch Bolton recommended increasing activities and one-to-one engagement for residents, particularly those confined to their rooms, improving access to entertainment such as televisions, radios and computers, supporting residents to spend time outdoors where possible, and considering the recruitment of additional male care staff. The provider accepted the findings and reported actions including introducing laptops for residents to use and continuing efforts to increase engagement and support for residents at risk of loneliness.