Downhurst Residential Home

I would like to say a big thank you to both the manager as well as one of her team members for their immense patience and kindness when accepting and welcoming my friend into Downhurst. The commitment and care they showed went beyond anything I expected - it was simply outstanding. Anyone looking for a residential home for their loved one would be hard pushed to find a better place.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff at Downhurst for providing my mother with such superb care and kindness over the many years she has lived with you. You've given her a home, love and security and despite her dementia, have always recognised her as a very intelligent woman who has led a full and active life. Your help is always so expertly and sensitively delivered in all aspects of her life. So is your encouragement and the sense of belonging that you've created which inspires such positivity and wellbeing. I've always been made to feel very welcome whenever I visit and will be forever grateful for all you do to make Mum feel so peaceful, comfortable and loved.

It is important that staff recognise her as an intelligent professional woman despite her dementia, and she is indeed treated with respect. She enjoys the range of activities available. Her only complaint concerns the catering, as she is not keen on 'traditional British' meals, preferring food that is lighter and more varied.

During the current lockdown, when I am sure everybody feels stressed, staff have continued to be friendly and helpful each time I've phoned and have done their utmost to keep 'residents' spirits up. I am very grateful to everybody there for taking such good care of my friend.

Nearly a year ago Mum's increasing dementia meant she could no longer stay in her own home. Reluctantly she moved into Downhurst, where the superb staff did an excellent job settling her in. She is now happier and much fitter physically. Downhurst has been everything we could have wished for when we first inspected it and spoke to the staff. We were impressed with the open way and detail in which all our questions were answered. Everything promised has been delivered from visiting a dentist, optician and chiropody to a range of twice-daily activities during the week and additional special events both in and out of the home. The food is excellent. Most importantly, all the staff we have had dealings with have been patient, kind and caring. They, together with all the ancillary, office and management provide first-class care with kindness and professionalism. We are welcome to visit at any time and the atmosphere at the home is welcoming and calm. We would recommend it without hesitation.

I have already recommended Downhurst to friends and relatives. The staff are all very friendly and hard working. Most of them have years of experience of looking after elderly clients. The building and gardens exceed all expectations. It is warm and welcoming. I am content to be here now.

My mum and dad have received wonderful care from the team at Downhurst over the last 6-months. Mum and dad are kept in very good health and well fed. They are both very happy at Downhurst.

My mother has lived at Downhurst for nine years. Her physical care, delivered with dignity and respect, is excellent, with very good food and close attention to medical welfare. There is a weekly programme of activities and social events which is imaginative, inclusive and fun. But my mother chose Downhurst herself in the first place because of its welcoming atmosphere, and it is the warmth and empathy of the Care staff and the experience of the Management, which makes Downhurst an outstanding home. I know that my family and I are welcome to visit at any time, and the atmosphere will be relaxed, friendly and calm.

The carers are wonderful and look after the residents with tenderness, kindness, and great respect. There are activities every day, particularly two from mother and toddler groups.

My mother has been a resident in Downhurst care home for over 12 months now. We have seen all the seasons and activities over that period which are enjoyed by the residents and relatives alike - especially the Christmas festivities. I would have no hesitation in recommending Downhurst care home to anyone looking for this type of care for either themselves or a relative. My mother and I have been extremely pleased with the level of care, dedication, friendliness and professionalism of all of the staff at Downhurst. Finally, a point of note that my mother had lost weight prior to moving into Downhurst but as a result of the healthy and well-balanced diet which Downhurst provides for the residents, my mother looks forward to all mealtimes. She has indeed put on weight since she moved into Downhurst which is a very welcome development. Thank you for everything Downhurst.

My mother-in-law has been in the home for over 12 months. They were very good about making adjustments to her room, making it the way she wanted it. She has settled nicely into a routine in the home and is happy and comfortable. She finds the staff helpful and friendly. She looks forward to the variety of activities arranged by the coordinator, who is always very encouraging. My mother-in-law enjoys her meals and has put on weight since moving in. I’ve noticed how cheerful and caring all the staff are when dealing with the residents. And visitors are always made welcome.

The food is delicious! Home-cooked and baking without the washing up - Downhurst feels like a true home. As I live in Canada I am grateful for the excellent phone communication too.