Newstone House opens Richmond Retreat in honour of former resident
A popular Sturminster Newton man has had a therapy room named after him at Newstone House where he lived for several years before his death
Our team members were saddened to lose long-term resident Graham Richmond, a retired BBC cameraman, in 2021.
Born and brought up in London, he became well known in his later years as a classic car enthusiast, exhibiting regularly in his adopted Dorset town.
After his passing, Graham’s family made a donation to our home, prompting discussions to start about the idea of creating a ‘Richmond Retreat’ room.
Our Companionship Team Leader Karlene Horswill said: “Graham’s family very kindly donated £5,000 with a hope that we would purchase something to benefit our residents at Newstone House.
“After a few meetings we all agreed we should use the money to not only benefit our residents but as a tribute to Graham as well.
“Many people, including our residents, have described him as a sociable, knowledgeable and very witty man who is sorely missed.
“The Richmond Retreat is a sensory based room that promotes well-being and relaxation for our residents living with dementia
“The family were very supportive with the decision, and we added little touches of some of Graham’s favourite things such as being outdoors, bird song and his love of living in Sturminster Newton.”
The room includes mood lighting, pictures of waterfalls and plants, comfortable seating, bird music, a picture donated by local artist Charlotte England and a large-scale, wallpaper photo of Sturminster Newton Mill.
Karlene added: “We are hoping the room will be enjoyed by our residents and we welcome their families to come and experience the space with their loved ones too.”
Our residents and team members came together for an official opening of the Richmond Retreat with a toast of wine and a ribbon cutting.
Resident Gillian Glennie said: “What a lovely space. I feel very relaxed, and the picture of the Mill is very impressive.”
Opened in 2011, Newstone House is rated Outstanding by care sector regulator the Care Quality Commission.