Jean’s Story at Wellington Grange

“Our circumstances meant we had to look for a care home. My mother had a one-month respite stay at Wellington Grange in 2024 and then moved in permanently in February 2025. The recommendation came from my partner’s sister, and I also spoke to family friends about their experiences of care homes. Some talked about being frightened at first, worrying they wouldn’t make friends.

“My mother did feel a little nervous at the beginning, but she very quickly found Wellington Grange to be welcoming. It’s exactly what she needs.

“Since becoming a permanent resident, she’s formed a close group of friends who meet regularly in the home’s café.

“They enjoy a glass of wine before lunch and spend a lot of time together, including going out on trips. My mother usually likes to go out once a week, which suits her perfectly.

“She has been very happy there. The staff are consistently caring, and that was clear from the start. When she returned late one evening after a short hospital stay, they made her a cup of tea straight away and helped her settle back in. It really felt like they were welcoming her home.

“My mother is still very mobile and quite independent, keeping herself busy, but knowing support is there whenever she needs it, gives us real peace of mind.

“She especially loves the garden. She spends a lot of time outside with the gardener, helping to prune the roses.

She’s wonderful – always involving her and making her feel part of things.

Having a ground-floor room means the garden is always within easy reach, and, weather permitting, she likes to walk four laps of it each day.

“My mother is still very mobile and quite independent, keeping herself busy, but knowing support is there whenever she needs it, gives us real peace of mind.

“My advice to other families is to take your time.

“Insist on a proper show-round and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

“We had a very thorough visit at the start and a good feeling even before the respite stay. Trying it out made all the difference.”