Enter and view: Wallace Lodge and Wallace Mews

Healthwatch South Tyneside undertook Enter and View visits to Wallace Lodge and Wallace Mews, two specialist residential care homes in South Shields operated jointly by Salutem Care & Education. These visits were commissioned by South Tyneside Council’s Quality Team as part of a wider quality assurance programme and were not prompted by any specific concerns. 

Healthwatch carried out the visits on 11 November 2025, using surveys and conversations with residents to understand their lived experience, feelings of safety, quality of care, and involvement in decision-making. Separate surveys were also offered to family members and friends, although none were completed. 

Wallace Lodge and Wallace Mews provide 24-hour residential care for adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and other complex needs. The homes are purpose-built, accessible, and designed to promote independence, dignity, and active lifestyles, with facilities such as large gardens, ensuite or shared bathrooms, and proximity to local amenities.

Six residents took part in the survey, and all reported that they were treated well, felt safe, and were happy with the care and support they received. Residents spoke positively about their bedrooms, relationships with staff, visits from family members, and everyday activities, with several describing enjoyment of outings, walking, gardening, shopping, and social events. 

Most residents said they felt involved in their care planning and were generally content with their arrangements, although a small number expressed a wish to go out more or reflected on past issues with staff that had since been resolved. Overall, residents described the homes as places where they felt settled, supported, and comfortable. 

Healthwatch’s observations during the visits noted that both homes were clean, bright, and welcoming, with staff who were helpful and respectful of residents’ communication needs. The environments were described as homely rather than institutional, and ongoing improvements, including plans for a sensory room and expanded communal space, were highlighted. 

The report concludes that the residents spoken to were satisfied with their care and raised no concerns, and it thanks both residents and staff for their cooperation.