Enter and view: Minchenden Lodge Care Home

Healthwatch Enfield undertook an enter and view visit to Minchenden Lodge Care Home on 12 November 2025.  They spoke to 13 people.

The home is clean, tidy, and has a homely feel, with vibrant door colours and personal touches in residents’ rooms. However, some areas, such as the dining room, appear tired and in need of refurbishment. The lounge lacks decorative features, and there is occasional odour upstairs. Safety concerns include the lift lacking access control, loose cables, and inconsistent dementia-friendly signage. Relatives and visitors reported that the home can be too hot and noisy.

Residents generally expressed satisfaction with staff, describing them as caring and professional. Care planning is electronic, and families are involved in monthly reviews. However, there was one concerning case where a pressure sore and bruising were not detected by the home. Staff training is generally good, but dementia expertise and spoken English vary among staff members.

There has been no Activities Coordinator since April 2025, and recruitment has been challenging. Activities are currently led by care staff, which has reduced their quality and variety. Both residents and relatives reported boredom, lack of exercise, and limited opportunities to go outside.

Catering is outsourced to a professional company. The food is of good quality, but some relatives noted a lack of variety. The dining area is appealing and accessible.

Families feel supported and can visit at any time. Most complaints are handled well, but one serious complaint was poorly received by management.