Enter and view: Oxford House Nursing Home

Healthwatch Slough, Healthwatch Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead and Healthwatch Bracknell Forest carried out Enter and View visits to Oxford House Nursing Home on 29 October and 4 November 2025. The purpose was to understand what the home was doing well and what could be improved, with a particular focus on independence and choice. During the visits, the team spoke with four residents, nine relatives, thirteen staff members, and the manager.

Environment and Dementia-Friendly Design

Most aspects of the environment met the King’s Fund Dementia-Friendly criteria. The home appeared welcoming, clean, and calm, with accessible garden areas and good natural light. The dining spaces created a pleasant atmosphere and supported independence. Some improvements were needed in bathroom areas, such as clearer tap markings and contrasting grab rails.

Garden

The garden was well used and appreciated by residents and relatives. One resident enjoyed spending long periods outdoors and staff accommodated this with heated blankets and regular check-ins. Relatives praised the garden but suggested more activities and better-maintained outdoor games. The manager confirmed that a garden improvement project is planned for 2026.

Quality of Care

Residents generally expressed high satisfaction with the care they received. Many praised the staff, saying they were kind and helpful. Relatives also felt confident in the care provided and said their loved ones were well-presented and supported to make choices.

Activities and Daily Life

The home offered a varied activity schedule delivered by two activity coordinators, a volunteer, and a weekend staff member. Some residents found the lounge noisy during activities, and the home plans to create a quiet room for those who prefer calm spaces. Relatives felt residents were encouraged to participate in activities and move around the home, though some staff said more activity support would be helpful.

Food and Hydration

Meal observations showed positive interactions, with staff providing personalised support and alternatives when needed. Food was generally served hot, and residents could choose where to sit. Both residents and relatives said food quality was good and culturally varied. Staff demonstrated strong understanding of hydration and nutritional needs and offered drinks frequently throughout the day.

Dignity, Respect, and Staff Relationships

Residents and relatives felt that staff were caring and respectful. Staff turnover was low, and many staff had long service histories. Staff reported good support from management, although they identified challenges such as occasional understaffing and managing residents with challenging behaviours. The manager highlighted initiatives such as long-service awards and free staff meals.

Training and Support

Staff said they were well trained and supported, with regular handovers and meetings. They valued management’s openness and responsiveness but mentioned that improved communication and teamwork would make a significant difference.

Connections with Other Services

Residents had good access to healthcare professionals, including GPs, dentists, pharmacists, and chiropodists. However, mental health services often responded slowly to referrals, which the home found challenging.