Residents living in Norfolk’s care homes are giving a largely positive picture of the way they are looked after while also identifying some things that could be improved, according to a new report.
Healthwatch Norfolk, which gathers feedback about people’s health and social care in the county, decided to visit care homes and talk to residents, staff and visitors.
They visited 19 spread across the county over a two-month period to better understand what life is like for those who live, work and visit these facilities.
Their report is based on feedback from 134 residents, 23 staff members, and 12 visitors, offering a well-rounded view of care home life in Norfolk.
The results
Residents were asked to rate their overall experience, with the average score across all homes coming in at a commendable 4.3 out of 5. This rating reflects a strong sense of contentment among those living in these care homes, suggesting that, by and large, residents feel well cared for and supported.
More visits to care homes are also planned to ensure even more people have the chance to share their views face-to-face, as well as keep strong links with those already visited by Healthwatch Norfolk.
The report was focussed on four main themes that emerged from the feedback: food, activities, staff relationships, and the environment and facilities.
Many residents spoke positively about the variety and quality of food offered, with some homes excelling in catering to diverse dietary needs. However, the report also highlights instances where specific dietary requirements, such as dairy and gluten-free options, were not adequately met.
A broad range of activities, from arts and crafts to musical events, received praise from residents, who appreciated having options that cater to different interests. Nonetheless, some residents expressed a desire for more opportunities to participate in outdoor activities and trips beyond the home.
Staff members were widely praised for their dedication and kindness, with residents and visitors alike noting the positive relationships they had developed. Despite this, concerns were raised about staff shortages and the impact this has on the level of care provided.
The report found that most care homes were clean, welcoming, and well-maintained, particularly those that had taken the time to personalize communal areas and individual rooms. However, older buildings presented challenges, with some residents noting issues such as small room sizes or difficulties with heating.
You can read more and download a copy of the report at https://healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk/reports/experiences-in-norfolk-residential-care-homes-may-2024/
Reaction
Alex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk, said: “Our latest report shines a light on the experiences of those living in care homes across the county. It’s positive to see that many residents are happy with the care they receive, but it’s also crucial that we address the areas where improvements are needed.
“At Healthwatch Norfolk, we are committed to making a real difference in the lives of residents and staff alike. This report not only reflects the current state of care but also serves as a call to action for continuous improvement, ensuring that every resident feels valued and well-supported.”
The work is also going to continue. Mr Stewart added: “We plan to continue our engagement with care homes, ensuring that residents’ voices are heard and that their feedback leads to meaningful changes. We want to ensure care homes continue to maintain these open lines of communication with residents and their families, promoting choice and personalization in every aspect of their care.”
You can see more about the project in the video below:
There is a subtitled version of the video below
