Archived: The Willows

There were 28 people living in The Willows, all of whom had varying levels of physical disability or dementia. The manager and the deputy manager were in the home and we met and spoke with a few relatives and two visiting health professionals during the day.

We saw that the communal areas were very homely and comfortable. Chairs and furniture were organised to offer cosy seating areas and gave a less formal appearance. We saw people choosing to sit in either of the two lounges or the dining room and some people who were more mobile chose to go to their bedroom throughout the day. People were encouraged to freely move around the home as they wished.

Relative's told us that the care staff were very good, caring and compassionate to people living in the home. They told us that they had visited at a few homes and chosen this one as it was very clean and homely.

One relative told us 'After the initial worry and upset of leaving Mum in the home, I now trust the staff to look after her and they respond well to any requests I make or issues I raise. The home is always clean and tidy.'

One person told us 'I like it here, everyone is nice.'

We spoke with five members of staff during the visit who were all knowledgeable about the people living in the home and their individualised care. They were able to discuss the care that people with dementia require and they were seen interacting very well with the people living in the home.

We met and spoke with the visiting district nurse and GP, who both spoke highly of the staff and the service that the home offered.