Enter and view: Riverlee Care Home

Healthwatch Greenwich carried out an Enter and View visit to Riverlee Nursing Home, a 75-bed care home providing residential, nursing and dementia care. Overall, residents appeared comfortable, well cared for and settled, and staff were observed to be caring, responsive and attentive to residents’ needs. Residents generally spoke positively about their bedrooms, the support they received and the relationships they had developed with staff and fellow residents. 

The home offered a wide range of activities and social opportunities, including bingo, music therapy, chair exercises, outings, school visits and faith-based support. Residents were encouraged to personalise their rooms, and one resident described enjoying their role as the home's "Dignity Champion", helping welcome new residents and supporting activities. Relatives were encouraged to visit without restrictions, and staff turnover was reported to be low, helping provide continuity of care. 

Healthwatch identified several environmental issues that could affect residents' experience. A strong odour was present in some communal areas, particularly corridors, and clutter in activity rooms and circulation spaces reduced available space and created potential trip hazards. The building's signage was considered insufficient, particularly for residents living with dementia, and some communal spaces felt cramped. While the home had attractive communal lounges, dining facilities and a garden, better navigation and accessibility features were recommended. 

Healthwatch concluded that Riverlee provides a caring environment where residents generally feel supported and respected. Recommendations focused on eliminating odours, reducing clutter in communal areas, improving signage both inside and outside the home, and ensuring the environment is easier to navigate for residents and visitors, particularly those living with dementia.