Enter and view: New Meppershall Care Home

Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire conducted an announced enter and view visit to New Meppershall Care Home on 14 April 2015. The visit is part of the team’s wider enter and view programme to identify how dignity is being respected in a care home environment. On the day of the visit, the team engaged with 2 residents, 2 members of staff and 2 relatives using survey and observation methods.

The home was found to be operating to a good standard of care with regard to cleanliness, dignity and respect. The home’s environment is pleasant, however, the team had difficulties locating the main entrance. Residents appeared well cared for and said they were happy with their care. Their independence and choice are promoted. They are offered a menu at mealtimes and said they enjoy the food quality. Residents meeting are held monthly to ensure their involvement in key decisions about their care. Staff were observed positively engaging with residents. There were some concerns over the communication of one of the members of staff whose first language is not English, however, the manager assured the team that they are being closely monitored. There are a variety of activities available, in which relatives are able to participate in with the residents.

The report included a number of recommendations. It was suggested that signage to the main entrance is improved, that the renovation of the ground floor is applied to the first floor and day centre, and that all new staff undergo rigorous training. The team recommended that the curtains/blinds in the main lounge are replaced as soon as possible, that larger photo books are added to the main library and that the report is shared across the home.

A response from the service provider was included in the report. They suggested that some of the report did not reflect current practice at the home, but thanked the team for the positive report.