Merlin Park

Merlin Park in Gosport provides residential and personal care for up to 25 older people, including individuals living with dementia or other cognitive impairments. This official report offers families a detailed look at how the home operates across key areas of daily life and safety. While the overall findings reflect a supportive and well-run environment, the inspection also highlights specific areas where the home has taken steps to improve based on past feedback.

When it comes to safety, the environment is kept clean and free from unpleasant odors, and residents feel secure. Although some relatives shared mixed views regarding staffing levels at times, observations showed that staff respond promptly to requests for assistance and manage safety risks properly. Medication is handled safely, and the home investigates incidents thoroughly, having recently improved daily documentation and staff training following a previous complaint.

The care provided is effective and tailored to individual needs. Staff receive a thorough induction and ongoing training, and although some families noticed varying levels of experience among staff, residents generally feel they know what they are doing. Previous concerns regarding nutrition and delayed contact with healthcare professionals were investigated and not found to be an issue during the visit; staff actively monitor residents' weight and work closely with GPs and specialists. The home features dementia-friendly signage and memory boxes, and while mental capacity assessments are generally handled well, the manager noted that some records need to be made more decision-specific.

Residents and their families consistently describe the staff as compassionate, kind, and respectful. Care plans reflect people's personal preferences, cultural beliefs, and diversity needs, with staff actively supporting religious practices such as arranging communion for those who cannot leave the building. Staff consistently ask for permission before carrying out any tasks and protect residents' dignity.

The service is responsive to people's changing needs, offering personalized care plans and a range of meaningful activities. Residents and families feel listened to and know how to raise concerns or share their opinions with the management team.

Finally, the home is well-led by a supportive manager and provider. Quality assurance systems are actively used to monitor standards, and the management team works transparently with external professionals, staff, and families to ensure the service runs smoothly.