Hollybank, our respite centre for children and young people, has received an extremely positive report from Healthwatch – the independent health and social care champion whose aim is to ensure that NHS leaders and other decision-makers listen to feedback from patients and service users to improve their services. Hollybank offer enjoyable breaks with the highest standard of care for children with disabilities and complex health care needs. The service is available to children, age range 5 to 17 inclusive, with disabilities, complex health care needs, autism, and challenging behaviours.
Annually, Healthwatch undertake a cycle of reviews across services where an authorised representative carries out an in-person observational visit to see what is available. Healthwatch Bromley visited Hollybank to complete their observation towards the end of July 2022.
The report details what is working well in the service and any minor tweaks we can make to improve. Areas covered in the report include the facilities available, COVID-19 and visiting, activities run and personal involvement, diet and cultural practices, feedback and the amazing care provided by the Hollybank team.
In the summary of the report, Healthwatch said “Staff appeared genuinely warm and engaged with service users.” and made a comment that “The entrance was a well-organised and welcoming environment. The decor is simple, with colourful illustrations and noticeboards on some of the walls; the overall space was bright and comfortable to walk around.”
When asked about their thoughts on Hollybank and the team, one parent said “I can honestly say they have been amazing” and another said “My children are happy, we are happy.”
In discussions had with our Hollybank colleagues, one of our team members highlighted that “Building relationships with the children is key. We have very good relationships, and they feel safe with staff they know”.