Enter and view: Tendercare, Oldbury

Healthwatch Sandwell undertook an Enter and View visit on 16 February 2026, as part of its 2025/26 programme focusing on the experiences of older people living with dementia. 

The environment at Tendercare was found to be clean, well maintained, and welcoming, with colourful décor, clear noticeboards, secure access systems, and a strong emphasis on dignity and safeguarding. Communal areas were spacious, well lit, and designed to be dementia-friendly, with sensory items, memorabilia, artwork, and regular themed decorations to support residents’ wellbeing and orientation. 

Residents were observed participating in interactive and inclusive activities, including music, dancing, and crafts, and many appeared happy, engaged, and relaxed. Although the home does not currently employ a dedicated activity coordinator, staff were seen working collaboratively to provide daily stimulation and meaningful engagement for residents. 

Feedback from residents and relatives was overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the quality of care, the friendliness and attentiveness of staff, the choice and quality of food, and the welcoming nature of the home. Residents reported feeling safe, well cared for, and listened to, and relatives described the service as reassuring and supportive. 

Staff were consistently observed interacting with residents in a respectful, warm, and person-centred manner. The registered manager was described as experienced, committed, and highly responsive, with staff expressing high levels of job satisfaction and a strong sense of teamwork. No agency staff were used, which helped to maintain continuity of care. 

Essential health services, including GP visits, pharmacy services, dental, optical, physiotherapy, and community nursing support, were in place and functioning appropriately. Care records were maintained electronically using person-centred care software, and medication management procedures were observed to be safe and well organised. 

The report identified some areas for improvement, particularly the need to ensure all staff complete the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism, to strengthen safeguarding training for placement students, and to enhance pictorial door signage to further support residents’ orientation. 

Overall, the report concluded that Tendercare provides a warm, homely, and safe environment with high standards of care, strong leadership, and positive relationships between residents, staff, and management. The service was found to promote dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion effectively, with only minor recommendations made to further strengthen practice.