Frequently Asked Questions
Moving into a residential care home – is it classed as giving up?
Quite the opposite! In our opinion it is saying I need support whilst I continue to live my life. I have decided I wish no longer to struggle on my own. I want companionship, security and freedom of choice in a safe environment.
We want you to live your life without worry or stress. It is time to relax and let us take the strain so you can enjoy yourself and concentrate on having a good time by enjoying all that is on offer. Many have come to our home on a Respite basis and stayed and have stated they wish they had done this earlier.
How do I know if Winslow House is the right care home for my relative?
We recommend that you come and have a look around. Choosing a care home for a relative is a little bit like choosing a house to buy – you will probably be able to tell whether our environment is suitable for your relative, by visiting us, and talking to our staff and other residents and getting a feel for the home.
Do I have to stay if I do not like it?
No, there is no obligation. Come and have a trial stay for a few weeks and see if we are the Home for you. If you do not wish to stay with us, this period could help you identify what you are looking for in a Home.
If we are the Home for you, we would enter an open ended, no frills contract. We do also provide respite care or holidays subject to there being room availability.
When can friends and relatives visit?
Visitors are welcome at any time. We do not have any visiting hours.
Will I lose my voice?
No, we actively encourage you to offer us your views, suggestions, concerns, needs, wishes, recommendations. You have many avenues to do this. We operate an ‘Open Door’ policy, whereby you and your relatives or representatives can talk through any issues with the Manager. You can use this medium for issues that you want to remain confidential or issues that you want brought up and discussed in any of the meetings held. We hold a monthly resident’s meeting, very informal to discuss any issues.
More formal meetings for residents are arranged. Involving relatives if you so wish.
Can I have my own G.P., Chiropodist, and Optician?
We encourage you to continue with your own Dentist, hairdresser if at all possible – in fact any service provider you may prefer. However if not – then we can arrange for you to see one of ours either in-house or externally.
You may be moving area, as many of our clients have, so you then need to register with a Doctor in Nailsworth or Minchinhampton. If you require a member of staff to accompany or escort you to your medical or hospital appointments there will be a nominal charge. We have many service providers already calling to see other residents
Do you take Social Services Funded Residents?
Yes we do, but it is usual for a third party contribution to the weekly fees
What is included in the care fees that Winslow house charge?
Our fees include all costs associated with accommodation, care, food, laundry, and our extensive programme of activities entertainments.
What’s not included in the care fees?
Daily newspapers and magazines, hairdressing, chiropody, escorted hospital visits, toiletries
Do you cater for special diets?
Yes, we do. Any dietary requirement is available
Will I have my own bedroom?
Yes, all our bedrooms are single occupancy; however we do also have rooms to accommodate a couple. All of our bedrooms have en-suite facilities, all bedrooms are individually decorated.
Can I bring some of my own furniture?
Yes, if you would like to. We are happy for you to personalise your room i.e. pictures, ornaments, and larger items if you wish, however and electrical items brought must first be PAT tested by our maintenance dept.
Can I have my own telephone?
Yes, all our bedrooms are fitted with telephone sockets, residents have their own telephone number and account, you can make and receive calls directly, and we also have a mobile telephone for those that choose not to have a telephone installed.
What happens to my laundry?
All laundry is managed on site by our laundress, we do ask for a name label to be sewn on clothing, Dry cleaning is arranged outside of the home and will be charged at cost.
What happens if I do not wish to handle my medication?
We can manage your prescribed medication; this is very common reason for people moving into a care home. We us the Monitored Dosage System which is provided by Lloyds Pharmacy designed especially for care homes