Valmar Care t/a Locharwoods of Birkdale

Locharwoods of Birkdale accommodates up to 19 people requiring residential care with nursing and personal care support. At inspection, 16 people were living at the home. Staff consistently wore appropriate personal protective equipment and disposed of it safely.

The home maintained rigorous hygiene standards with frequent cleaning throughout the day, and implemented measures to minimise infection risk including staff changing from outdoor shoes at shift start and laundering uniforms on-site.

The home had established a regular testing programme for residents and staff. Communal areas were reconfigured to maintain social distancing, with chairs repositioned further apart in lounges. Family visits were supported safely, including use of an outdoor 'cuddle wall' during warmer weather.

The home sought feedback from families and friends through a COVID-19 survey to identify areas for improvement, and staff and residents received support to isolate when necessary.