"Care of our Mum at Blenheim Lodge"

Our Mum. Our Mum passed away on 1 October 2020, having spent a week in Musgrove Hospital. Going back in time a little, during the course of 2017, our Mum who had been diagnosed with Parkinsons wanted to look at Care Home options. She had always heard good things of Blenheim Lodge, and whilst we took her to see various care homes, this was the one she felt she could call home. Mum moved in to her new home in January 2018. The move was more shocking for us than for her. The carers gave us all a warm welcome, encouraged us to bring as much furniture as would make things nice and homely. There was never a frown or tut, just a feeling of love and warmth for us looking after our Mum and for Mum moving to her new home.

There was a lack of rooms available then, but Blenheim did what they could and found a double aspect room overlooking the park and North Hill a week after our request. Mum, being an inquisitive soul, later asked to see other rooms and moved across to a beautiful room with a sea view. They upgraded the bathroom with a new shower, improving the space to move around for someone increasingly immobile. She was home and happy there.

Mum found friends there, not just with other residents, but with the carers, manager, and gardener too. We visited often and felt equally at home. Such down to earth, loving, caring people. We never felt that we ‘left’ Mum; she moved! Between us we discussed our concerns that Blenheim might ask that Mum moves on as the Parkinsons affected her mobility. Even after a short spell in hospital, Blenheim did all they could to get her home and we were so grateful. Ejecting Mum was never Blenheim’s plan, how to get her back took planning! And these very special carers and staff at Blenheim plan and save!

Following the onset of the pandemic, we couldn’t see Mum for a while; they offered skype but Mum couldn’t be bothered and would prefer phone calls. Blenheim was super safe with no Covid cases, and they allowed visitors as soon as they could; appreciating how important family contact is to their residents, we were visiting Mum in a Covid safe environment from late Summer, and even had the opportunity to meet in the park for a change of environment.

We do not need to say more, other than that we have no regrets but huge appreciation for what Blenheim offers – pre and post pandemic. We would have no hesitation and quite the opposite when it comes to deciding on a place to live when you need care. We are not sure how long a booking can be made in advance, but what a way to go! Pure love, respect and normal down to earth care. You couldn’t ask for more for your loved ones, or for yourself.

Thank you to everyone at Blenheim Lodge xxx