- Care home
BrendonCare Otterbourne Hill
Report from 30 October 2025 assessment
Contents
Ratings
Our view of the service
Date of Assessment: 17 to 28 November 2024. The service is a nursing home providing support and treatment to adults of all ages who may be living with dementia, a physical disability or sensory needs. The inspection was prompted in part by notification of an incident following which a person using the service had sustained an injury as a result of a fall.
The staff at Brendon Care Otterbourne Hill demonstrated a culture of safety, compassion, and continuous improvement, delivering care that was personalised and effective. Staff consistently showed kindness, empathy, and respect, ensuring dignity was upheld during all aspects of care. People were empowered to make choices about their daily lives, supported by individualised communication such as pictures and easy-read formats to promote understanding and informed decision-making.
Care was tailored to individual needs, incorporating nutrition, hydration, mobility support, and mental wellbeing strategies. Skin care routines and pressure area prevention were embedded into daily practice, while social engagement was promoted through a diverse range of activities including arts, music, exercise classes, and community events. These initiatives enriched lives, reduced isolation, and improved confidence and wellbeing.
Risk management was comprehensive, with detailed assessments for conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes. Medicines were managed safely, and infection control measures were consistently applied. Staff were well-trained in person-centred care and proactive in responding to urgent needs, ensuring safety and comfort at all times.
The home excelled in partnership working and engagement extended to education providers, nurseries, and children’s services through intergenerational projects and shared learning initiatives, strengthening community ties and enhancing wellbeing.
Governance systems were robust, with clear accountability structures, effective audits, and effective service improvement plans. Leaders demonstrated transparency, inclusivity, and strong oversight, fostering a culture of learning and improvement.
People's experience of this service
People experienced consistently high‑quality care that was compassionate, respectful, and tailored to their individual needs. Staff demonstrated kindness and empathy in every interaction, ensuring people felt valued and that their dignity was upheld at all times. People were happy with the care they received, and both they and their relatives told us this was their experience.
Choice and independence were central to the service’s approach. People were empowered to make informed decisions about their daily routines, care, meals, and social activities. Staff used accessible communication methods—such as pictures and easy‑read materials—to support understanding and help people remain in control of their lives.
Care plans were highly personalised, reflecting each person’s history, preferences, and clinical needs. People were supported to maintain physical health and emotional wellbeing through tailored nutrition, hydration, mobility support, and structured routines.
The home also provided good opportunities for engaging in activities, making friends, and benefiting from meaningful social interaction. A varied programme of arts, music, exercise sessions, and community events helped enrich daily life, reduce isolation, and promote a strong sense of belonging.
People reported feeling safe and reassured, knowing staff responded promptly to urgent needs such as pain management, falls, or distress. Professionals observed interventions were timely and effective, contributing to positive outcomes and improved quality of life. Feedback from people and families was regularly sought and acted upon, ensuring services evolved in line with individual preferences.
Community connections further enhanced people’s experience. Intergenerational projects with schools and nurseries brought joy and stimulation, while partnerships with local organisations created opportunities for learning and inclusion. People benefited from these initiatives, which strengthened social ties and promoted wellbeing.