Ferndale Mews

Healthwatch Halton carried out an Enter & View visit to Ferndale Mews Care Home in Widnes in September 2025. Our team spent time talking with residents, relatives and staff to understand how people are supported and to see what’s working well, as well as where things could be improved.

We found a warm, caring and well-led home where residents appeared settled and comfortable. Staff were friendly and attentive, and family members told us they were confident in the care provided.

The management team and provider have shown a clear commitment to continuous improvement, supported by recent investment in refurbishment and new equipment. Work is already underway to refresh décor, create new sensory spaces and improve signage.

Residents and visitors spoke positively about the atmosphere and relationships with staff. Feedback systems such as You Said, We Did boards and Resident of the Day reviews help ensure people’s voices are heard.

Key recommendations included:

  • Continue refurbishment work and prioritise lighting and dementia-friendly signage
  • Keep menus and noticeboards up to date
  • Display Healthwatch Halton and Advocacy Hub information in communal areas
  • Complete minor maintenance tasks such as lighting and seating repairs

Response from the Home

The management team welcomed the report. They explained that a programme of improvements is already underway, with handrails and residents’ doors being repainted in contrasting colours to support orientation. Menus and noticeboards are now checked daily, and Healthwatch Halton and Advocacy Hub information has been added to communal areas.

New lighting and furniture have been ordered, and plans are in place to create two sensory rooms — one on each floor — to enhance residents’ wellbeing. The home thanked Healthwatch Halton for its visit and said staff appreciated the constructive feedback.

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