Enter and View: Oaks Court House Care Home

An unannounced visit was undertaken by Authorised Representatives due to issues highlighted to Healthwatch Wolverhampton by members of the public. Healthwatch Wolverhampton had also received and observed issues within sister homes of Oaks Court House.

Summary of Findings

Authorised Representatives made the following recommendations:

1. Ensure corridor lights are on to reduce the chance of resident falls.
2. Ensure all areas are kept clean, including the toilets, bathrooms and landing areas.
3. Change the number to the key coded door and remove the password from the wall.
4. Clean the rubbish out of the back garden and fix the broken fence panel.
5. Display a CCTV sign to give people notice they are being filmed.
6. Ensure key coded cupboards are kept locked.
7. Move the drug trolleys into an area not accessible by visitors, eg locked storeroom or office.
8. Ensure all residents living on the ground floor feel safe.
9. Ensure alarm calls are responded to promptly and residents aren’t left waiting for 20-30 minutes.
10. Consider introducing a welcome pack for new residents.
11. Ensure that resident’s choice is promoted, especially in regard to what they wear.
12. Introduce more food choices to the menu, more rotation, and more cultural food options.
13. Ensure all residents and family members are aware of the complaints process.
14. Increase the number of resident activities to reduce loneliness and isolation and to ensure residents feel part of a community.
15. Regular resident meetings with all staff and encourage residents to attend.

This report was produced by the previous Healthwatch Wolverhampton service provider, Engaging Communities Solutions CIC.