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Healthwatch Staffordshire conducted an Enter and View visit on Essington Manor Care Home, a residential care home with 41 places caring for adults over 65 years old, on 11th July 2017. The purpose of the visit was to follow up on the findings of a CQC visit carried out in January 2017 - specifically the lack of activities and the possibility that the needs of residents with dementia had not been fully considered. Observation by the Enter and View representatives reported: - externally, the home is very well maintained; - there are 2 large properties on the site with an extension linking the 2 buildings; - the interior is well maintained, clean, calm and clutter free; residents rooms are large with en-suite facilities; - residents are mostly self-funded; - agency staff are not used unless it’s an emergency; - there was a good rapport between staff and residents; - all residents have tailored care plans; - two activity coordinators have been recruited to address the CQC finding on lack of activities; activities include creating Memory Books, a reading group, shopping – new activities are planned; - catering services appear to be of good quality as the food appeared appetising during the visit, special diets are catered for, residents’ weight is monitored and support to eat/drink is provided if necessary; - staff have regular training updates with training provided by the Manager and trainers from the local college. Residents commented that: - staff were friendly and caring; - they appreciate the weekly hairdresser/manicurist visits; - having an activity programme has made a difference. Relatives receive a monthly report from a key worker to keep them informed of their relative and they commented positively on the care provided by the home. Staff commented that: - they felt supported by management and could discuss any issues; - there was sufficient cover and extra assistance available if needed. The following recommendations were made: - interaction between residents who enjoy conversations and have similar interests could be arranged by putting them in the same area; - more group activities would be appreciated by the residents - these are being planned by the new activity coordinators. A follow up visit in six months was suggested. There was no response from the service provider.

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