Working at Middleton Hall Retirement Village

Staffing levels keep people safe but staff say they sometimes lack time to chat and do activities with residents.

We received mixed views from staff about staffing levels in some areas of the home. Staff told us that there were always enough staff on duty to meet people's needs and keep people safe. However, staff told us they would like more time to spend with residents to do activities. One staff member told us, "We try and socially interact with the residents but it's hard. Sometimes perhaps we don't have enough time."

Staff get mandatory training and some online extras but some need better training on mental capacity decisions.

Some carers did not fully understand best interests decisions and we have made a recommendation about additional training in this area. We recommend further training is provided to support staff in this area.

Varied activities like art, pottery, gardening and outings but no dedicated activities coordinator or specialist programmes mentioned.

Per 2019 comprehensive inspection: People had opportunity to take part in an incredibly varied programme of activities within the home in line with their personal preferences and there were good links with the local community. One person told us, "There's sewing and an arts studio and you can do pottery. There's plenty of things if you want to do them and they take us out on a Wednesday weather permitting."