Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness has published its latest Enter and View report, focusing on Stobars Hall residential care home in Kirkby Stephen, Eden. The Stobars Hall report highlights key findings based on resident feedback and staff engagement, identifying areas of both strength and improvement.
What we found at Stobars Hall
Our Enter and View team found that residents at Stobars Hall feel safe, well-cared for, and enjoy a homely and welcoming environment. Set in a beautiful location in Eden, Stobars Hall was described by residents as feeling like home, with many praising the atmosphere and surroundings.
What emerged is that residents appreciate the company, the quality of the care received (“the staff are very kind”), the lack of responsibilities (“not having to do any housework”), and the views (“so uplifting to get up and see all the beauty around you”; “seeing the squirrels and the church steeple”).
Resident satisfaction and safety
The Enter and View report highlights the satisfaction residents have with the quality of care, noting the friendly and supportive staff. Some recommendations from our Enter and View visit have already been acted upon by the care home.
These include:
- Installing dementia-friendly clocks in communal areas to support orientation and independence.
- Improving signage near uneven surfaces to enhance safety for residents and visitors.
While progress is evident, we did identify that further investment is needed to ensure the well-being of all residents.
Staffing challenges
Staff at Stobars Hall reported feeling well-trained and supported in delivering person-centred care. However, like many care homes across the country, there is a need for more staff to maintain high standards of care.
Overall, feedback from residents, family members and staff indicates that the management team is making positive improvements and is committed to providing a high-quality, safe and welcoming environment.
Recommendations for improvement
To ensure continued high standards, the Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness recommends:
- Ongoing recruitment and support for care staff.
- Continued focus on enhancing the physical environment for residents.
- Sustained communication with residents and families about changes and improvements.
Read the full Stobars Hall Report
For a detailed overview of our findings and all recommendations, you can read the full Stobars Hall Enter and View report on our website.
Interested in making a difference in local health and care services? Learn more about how you can become an Enter and View volunteer and help us gather vital feedback from residents across Westmorland and Furness.