Dukeminster Court

My mum started residing at Dukeminster in September. She previously lived with my sister, who died in June and was very reluctant to move but knew she needed full-time care. I cannot speak highly enough of all the staff and management in making my mum so welcome. She has settled in better than we could have wished for. The care and attention she is given are outstanding, and although she would rather be in her own home, she is happy. The only criticism is the standard of food - it can be a bit hit-and-miss at times.

Overall, I am pleased my mum is there.

My father (97) came to Dukeminster in July 2023 when no longer able to live alone. Our first impressions of Dukeminster as a very clean, spacious facility, professionally run with calm, friendly and helpful staff have been borne out in the care Dad has received to date. The senior management team have demonstrated insight and patience in providing him with appropriate levels of personal, medical, and psychological care and support. Any queries or concerns we may have are always dealt with promptly. Staff are efficient and friendly and for Dad at least, seeing their different coloured uniforms helps him to understand what to expect from each individual. The catering is excellent such that he stays hydrated with drinks and regular meals throughout the day. The laundry, housekeeping and maintenance service is exemplary. The reception area is always very welcoming and we appreciate how a balance is maintained between familiarity and privacy for both residents and their visitors.

The ladies on reception and the majority of carers work extremely hard. What I am disappointed in is the management, when we initially discussed Mum's needs, it was discussed that Mum doesn’t like male carers and likes to be attended to by female carers which is stated on her care plan. I have since found out that on that night of her accident, her personal care was being tended to by a male carer and had also been on other occasions too. I also asked if Mum was found on the morning of her accident via a routine check or via her room sensor going off and was told the sensor was faulty. The manager also said that Mum hasn’t previously had falls but she has! The manager also has never once said ‘I’m sorry for your loss!’

Home from home. Special people who care and love for all people, treating them with dignity.

Mum came for three weeks respite following a fall at home. The care and compassion displayed by all the staff here are exemplary.

I visited Dukeminster Court for the first time this month and was most impressed with the home. All the staff were very helpful and friendly, the home was immaculate and my friend is very well cared for. Congratulations to you all!

My mother moved into Dukeminster Court following a stroke whilst waiting for the completion of a retirement flat. She loved it so much she decided to stay at Dukeminster on a permanent basis! My mother is very happy and feels very well looked after by all the wonderful staff. She has a lovely room, enjoys the company of the staff and the other residents and happily participates in all the fabulous activities. The food is great too! As a family member, the staff at Dukeminster couldn't be more friendly and helpful. We are very happy with the home.

Absolutely wonderful visit with my brother for his birthday. The COVID prevention procedure is excellent. Well done Dukeminster!!!

As always, a very good experience, and all the staff are great and very helpful.

We appreciate the care and support she is given and thank everybody involved.

We think Dukeminster Court is a great place for Mum. Really friendly and a great feeling about the place. Would highly recommend.

Just visited Mum indoors for the first time. Staff are very welcoming and the procedure was efficient. I will be glad when we can all get back n and take our relatives out.

My mother has been so happy here and been treated with such kindness at all times. Although these times have been very difficult; my mother has been constantly been monitored for her health and well being. I thank all the staff for everything they have done in keeping my mother well and happy - beyond their jobs.

I regularly visit my sister-in-law every 2 weeks and find her well cared for, clean and tidy and alert. The staff, have without exception, been polite and helpful; they are kind in their care of residents and understanding their needs. I have been visiting for the past 4 years and am now known and welcomed. Refreshments (tea/coffee) are always available. My sister-in-law seems content, she is unable to communicate much to other residents because of her hearing/sight problems but appreciates company at meals, the care she receives and monthly church services.

Although difficult seeing Mum through a screen, one visit was well organised. PPE available and staff were available to support Mum.

The care given to my mother has been excellent. My mother is nearly deaf, nearly blind and has advanced Alzheimer's. Staff are very kind and patient with her. She is always clean and as happy as she can be given her circumstances. The home has been open for garden visits during the lockdown, and staff help me to try and communicate with her (although she has never acknowledged my presence)! I look forward to being able to hold her hand and kiss her once more!

Mum is unable to help herself nowadays, but she is cared for well even though she makes life difficult for the carers. They treated her with dignity and patience even though she rarely shows signs of being grateful. I am phoned and kept in the loop with any problems, although, I am unable to do much to assist. At lockdown visits, a carer often sits with her to pass on my conversations. Due to her poor sight and hearing and that fact that she often refuses to wear hearing aids, meetings are very difficult.

Brilliant help from all of the team. One member of staff is always so accommodating in our garden visits, remember everyone's drinks and is so gentle and personable with the resident. Pleased to see all the Xmas decorations go up to try and keep spirits high in the grim current climate. Extra special shout-out to two other members of staff who always go above and beyond to make her life as lovely as possible.

This year has been a real test for all staff, but they have excelled in everything they have had to do.