If you or your family want a peaceful haven for your twilight years, consider Swillbrook House.
Mike Davis (right) had tried four other care homes in the Preston area before he ended up at this rural retreat two years ago. Set down a lane amid hedgerows and fields, this 17th century mansion in Bartle has a reputation as a safe and comfortable care home. Former financial adviser Mike, 63, was running a bar in China when a stroke robbed him of his mobility – though he’s hoping resumed physiotherapy will enable him to lead an independent life again.
Swillbrook House is owned by a family firm who have two other care homes in the Preston area. They have invested heavily to update the building and train staff since taking over in 2015. Manager Pam Simpkin (above) said they had worked hard to address CQC concerns about medicines and leadership. On medicines, a relationship had been forged with the care homeservice of Pharmalogic and a permanent manager – herself – had been appointed. She says: “We have put in a lot of work and our care is really good. It’s a real home from home. We involve the whole of a service user’s family and they are welcome to visit at any time. Our staff are lovely – kind, compassionate and respectful towards the service users. It is a fun place to work – if you don’t enjoy your work, you don’t do it so well, so we must be doing something right.”
Pam, who has 32 years’ experience in care, said feedback from residents was that Swillbrook House really felt like a home. “This is a beautiful setting and the building has a lot of character – we are updating it and are getting through that programme.” (See newly decorated dining room below)
Activities such as entertainment, crafts, games and music are held weekly. There are strong links with Great Eccleston Medical Centre and Crown Lane Free Methodist Church.
