Enter and view: Holly Lodge

Healthwatch Medway carried out an announced Enter and View visit to Holly Lodge, a residential care home in Chatham that provides care for people living with dementia. During the visit, the team spoke with residents, relatives, staff members, the registered manager and the proprietor. At the time of the visit, 19 residents were living at the home. 

The report describes Holly Lodge as a long-established, privately run care home with a registered capacity of 22 residents. The home provides a range of facilities, including communal living and dining areas, assisted bathrooms and a garden area. Staffing levels were reported as three staff on duty at all times, and the home did not use agency staff. 

Healthwatch found that a variety of activities were available for residents, including games, books, newspapers, manicures, music and movement sessions. Daily activities were advertised, and staff supported residents with individual activities. The home was recruiting an activities coordinator to improve and expand its activity programme. Residents also had access to an outdoor garden area and occasional community activities such as visits from church groups. 

The report found evidence of person-centred care. Relatives stated that they were involved in developing and reviewing residents’ care plans, and staff appeared familiar with residents’ individual preferences, likes and dislikes. The manager demonstrated detailed knowledge of all residents. Residents were observed to be clean, appropriately dressed and treated with dignity and respect. Positive interactions between staff and residents were seen throughout the visit. 

Mealtime arrangements were viewed positively. The dining room was described as welcoming, menu choices were available, snacks were provided between meals, and the cook checked whether residents were satisfied with their food. One resident commented positively on the quality of the meals. 

Relatives expressed satisfaction with the care provided and stated that they would move their family member if they were unhappy with the service. Visitors were allowed at any time, although protected mealtimes were in operation. 

Healthwatch concluded that Holly Lodge offered a homely environment with a good understanding of dementia care among staff. The team observed caring and respectful relationships between staff and residents and welcomed plans to appoint an activities coordinator. One immediate suggestion was made regarding the suitability of music being played for residents, and staff acted on this during the visit. The report noted that the lack of a lift was a limitation, as access to upper floors depended on a chair lift. Overall, the findings were positive. 

The provider chose not to submit a response to the report.