New Houghton Hospital

Staffing

There are sufficient staff on duty with appropriate skill mix, including two registered nurses at night. However, the home relies heavily on agency staff, especially at night, and many agency staff have not received training on key safety procedures and equipment.

Activities

Activities include bingo, arts and crafts, and exercise classes. Some residents prefer to relax quietly at their bedsides. There are volunteers supporting activities. However, some residents spend long periods without meaningful engagement.

Food

Meals are prepared off-site with a four-week menu offering three main course options daily. Residents are offered choices and assistance at mealtimes is respectful. Some complaints about food quality (e.g., tough lamb). Dining on the Abbey Unit is cramped and does not allow all residents to eat at tables comfortably.

Dementia

The home cares for many residents with dementia. Staff have training in managing challenging behaviour and use care plans and behaviour observation charts to support residents. However, two nurses still require training in this area.

Summarised by AI from the HIQA report of 24 April 2025. Check the report for the full picture.Source report (PDF)