Norwood

The last thing my mother ever wanted to do was to leave the family home, where she had lived for 53 years and where my father had died 27 years ago. And as for living in a care home, that was unthinkable. We live 150 miles away in Suffolk so when she could no longer manage at home because of her dementia, she came to live with us until a place became available at Norwood.

A year on she has made good friends, she is very relaxed and there is no longer any angst about going home. As a committed Christian her spiritual needs are very well catered for at this Methodist Home with twice weekly services.

Thank you Norwoods and staff for your work.

In my experience my mother-in-law has been well treated and so thoroughly looked after, that we have no worries about her care. We trust the staff absolutely and all our questions are speedily answered. First class!!

My mother has been a resident at Norwood for 2 years now and has always received excellent care from staff who routinely go over and above the 'call of duty'. She feels completely at home, safe and valued, which in turn gives us, her family, peace of mind. We really can't praise Norwood enough. the standard of accommodation is very high, the food excellent, the activities very inclusive and access to staff extremely easy. Norwood ia a warm and caring place where everyone is made to feel welcome.

Thorough and friendly review covering various issues from domestic arrangements to health issues, associated with ongoing arthritis.

For many years I have visited the home to visit residents who were members of the church. I have come to know some staff very well and have found them caring and welcoming. I have assisted with the spiritual life of the home by conducting occasional services of worship, in addition I have assisted with money-raising for the home and organisation.

The emphasis is stressed that this is their "home", it is not an impersonal institution and respect is given to all involved, whether serving or being served.

Outings are organised in larger numbers for a day to a local facility by the sea, fish and chips are always popular. Small groups are taken to local theatre, and out for lunch, or a visit to the park, where there is a park-mobile. Visitors, friends and relatives are made welcome.

I much rather be at home like most people would, however, I feel Norwood is the best option as I needed support and care. I feel well cared for at all times, I always feel safe and secure in my environment. All meals are lovely that are provided daily. I am a diabetic and I feel it's maintained very well with regards to meals and fluids.

Carers are always available. It is clear how much they care. Staff are excellent.

Mum moved to Norwood in October and we very soon realised what an amazing home Norwood is, from the management to the carers the level of care mum has received has been first class. Nothing is too much trouble. The rooms are comfortable and spotlessly clean, the food appetising and well presented and the activities organised, interesting and stimulating. The staff are cheerful, caring and supportive have given mum her dignity and confidence back. A fantastic home which is happy and comfortable. We have our mum back to her old cheerful and happy self. Thank you.

I have visited Norwood for several years and the residents always look happy and well looked after.

After two weeks residing, I am still trying to find out how the home runs. Staff are courteous but it would help if we could have a daily feedback from a staff member who had cared for my relative. They are good at organising medication and outside help such as district nurses. There do not seem to be sufficient staff on at night to deal with restless residents. I understand there are only 3 night staff for 45 residents. My relative requires quite close monitoring. I wonder if so few staff falls below the statutory limit? Close monitoring of catheter, shaving, teeth cleaning could be improved, keeping an eye on the correct returned laundry is a daily sort out but with only a few men in the home it should not be such a problem.

I feel the carers at Norwood "Go that extra mile" with the residents. My father (and all the residents) always look clean and happy. My father has been at Norwood a short time but from what I have seen the care has been exceptional.

My father has been a resident at Norwood for over seven years, throughout which he has continually said how fortunate he is to live at the home. His needs have increased as time as passed, with a failing memory leading to extra work for staff as they check on him (24 hours a day) to ensure that his desire to be as independent as possible, trying to walk with his frame when he can no longer really stand unaided, has not led to a fall. They answer his call bell with friendliness, always addressing him by name and carefully provide the extra bathroom assistance he requires.

All the staff continue to look after my father with unfailing patience, kindness and courtesy, even when his deafness can make dialogue very difficult. He is well fed and that is so important, since my father has always enjoyed his meals. The twice weekly religious services held in the lounge mean a lot to my father, as does conversation with the home's chaplain. Living 125 miles away, I have been so grateful for the close care and attention which my father receives. His medicines are scrupulously managed and his care plan is regularly reviewed. I am immediately informed of any accident, however minor and records of these are available for tracking of overall health.

I recommend the home unreservedly, in common with relatives of other residents who, when I am visiting, so frequently make unsolicited comments of praise for the management and staff of the home.

Gardens are extensive planted with shrubs, trees, flowers with beautiful tubs with lots of colourful plants. Staff are cheerful and helpful. The home also provides Christian services weekly.

My mother has been resident at Norwood for 4 years. In that time she has received excellent care. The atmosphere at Norwood is pleasant and welcoming. The carers are professional and most importantly "caring".