Report: Community visiting in care homes

A report evaluated the Community Visitor (CV) pilot scheme in three care homes for older people in Essex, south east England. CVs visited care homes every week, aiming to befriend older people and to enhance communication between care home managers, staff, residents, and their families.

The report said that: residents valued the company and conversation of CVs, were less isolated, and took part in a greater range of activities; CVs often made a big difference in addressing the ‘little things’ that mattered to older people; while CVs were able to make observations and helped care homes in developing their approach, they had limited influence on the culture of care homes; and the pilot had highlighted the role of committed, supported volunteers in augmenting the work of the care home.