Enter and view: The Yews

Healthwatch Derby undertook an Enter and View visit to The Yews Residential Home in Derby on 8 April 2016, which aimed to understand the experiences of residents, visitors and staff. 

The visit formed part of a wider programme to assess the quality of residential and nursing homes, using observation, interviews and surveys to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement or good practice. 

The Yews provides residential care for up to 27 people over the age of 65, including individuals with dementia, and offers additional services such as respite and day care in a homely setting with access to local amenities. 

Overall, the findings were very positive, with the home described as clean, light, airy and well-decorated, creating a comfortable and homely environment with good information available for residents and visitors. 

Staff were observed to be friendly, caring and attentive, and residents appeared comfortable, well-presented and socially engaged, interacting positively with both staff and each other. 

Facilities were generally appropriate and accessible, including communal lounges, dining areas, a library and outdoor seating, although a safety concern was noted where wheelchairs were temporarily blocking a fire escape. 

Food provision was viewed as a strength, with varied menu options, snacks available throughout the day and meals that were described as well-prepared, nutritious and generous in portion size. 

Survey feedback was limited but highly positive: residents reported being happy, respected and able to make decisions about their daily lives, while visitors consistently expressed satisfaction with staff, care quality, communication and visiting arrangements. 

Examples of good practice included personalised care through named key workers, the use of sensor mats for safety, opportunities for independent activities such as the library and flexible snack provision.

The report made two key recommendations: to keep fire exits clear at all times and to consider applying for a local dignity award to further demonstrate commitment to residents’ dignity and privacy. 

In summary, the report concluded that The Yews Residential Home was providing a caring, respectful and largely high-quality service, with only minor improvements required.