Lansdowne Hill – our Swindon care home rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) – is grateful to be COVID-free. Any resident or team member showing symptoms is tested, but there have been no coronavirus cases in the home since 7 May.
During lockdown the team has worked hard to keep residents safe and well, and their spirits up. The home’s activity co-ordinators have spent time 1-2-1 with residents and in groups, making sure everyone has a chance to get involved.
Residents have found alternative ways to take trips out. A highlight has been a week-long virtual European ‘cruise’, with the home’s kitchen staff joining in by preparing menus inspired by that day’s destination.
Food, including baking and fudge-making, has been at the heart of many activities. The gardening club has been growing lots of delicious veg, which will all find its way into the kitchen – talk about local produce!
The home’s lovely accessible garden has really come into its own during lockdown. Families can pre-book garden visits, albeit at a safe distance, and with a few stipulations to minimise the risk.
“We’ve found lots of new ways to keep in touch with loved ones. Our residents have really embraced technology – video calls happen most days now!
Our Facebook page has been a great way for us to share pictures and stories of what we’ve been up to with families and friends. We’re so grateful for the generous donations we’ve had during the pandemic: letters, cards chocolates, biscuits and wine, plus amazing handmade laundry bags, face masks and other PPE items.
A student from Ridgeway School even used the 3D printer to make us visors!
I’m incredibly proud of how the team, residents, relatives and our local community in Wroughton have pulled together. We really do appreciate their heartfelt support.”