Enter and view: Holme Manor Care Home

Healthwatch Lancashire carried out an announced Enter and View visit to Holme Manor Care Home in Rawtenstall on 25 April 2017. The home, which accommodates up to 34 residents, provides care for older people, including those living with dementia and physical disabilities. Following the visit, Healthwatch awarded the home an overall Green rating, meaning the representatives would choose the home for a loved one. 

The care home was found to be welcoming, homely and well maintained, with attractive gardens, comfortable communal areas and a strong person-centred approach to care. Representatives observed positive relationships between staff and residents, noting that staff knew residents well, treated them respectfully and delivered care in a compassionate manner. 

The environment was generally clean, warm and comfortable. The home featured personalised bedroom doors, nostalgic artwork and information displays that helped create a friendly atmosphere. However, representatives identified some areas for improvement, including limited dementia-friendly adaptations, patterned carpets, a lack of grab rails in corridors, worn carpeting on a staircase and the positioning of some mobility equipment that could obstruct wheelchair users.

Representatives considered the home’s rural location attractive but potentially challenging for visitors and residents who rely on public transport or have limited mobility. Parking was restricted and there were no designated disabled parking spaces. Additional signage along the access lane was also suggested as a possible improvement. 

The dining experience was viewed positively. Meals were freshly prepared on site, residents were offered menu choices and special dietary requirements, including halal meals, were catered for. Residents spoke highly of the quality, variety and presentation of the food. 

Activities were identified as a particular strength of the home. Residents had access to a varied programme that included arts and crafts, knitting, baking, photography, music, theatre trips, memory activities and seasonal events. During the visit, representatives observed lively and meaningful engagement between residents, staff and the activities coordinator.

Feedback from residents was overwhelmingly positive. Residents described the home as friendly, clean and welcoming, praised the standard of care, and said staff were approachable and responsive to their needs. No negative comments were reported. 

The relative interviewed during the visit expressed complete satisfaction with the service, stating that the resident was happier since moving into the home. The relative felt well informed about care and support arrangements, knew how to make a complaint and would recommend the home to others. 

Staff also reported positive experiences. They said management was supportive, person-centred care was encouraged, training opportunities were available and they generally felt staffing levels were adequate, although sickness absence could occasionally create pressure. All staff members interviewed said they would recommend the home to a family member. 

Overall, Healthwatch Lancashire concluded that Holme Manor provided a caring, friendly and person-centred service with good activities, positive resident experiences and committed staff, while noting some environmental and accessibility improvements that could further enhance the home.