At The Lawn care home in Alton, Hampshire, resident Colin Jones and his family made the big decision to make the care home his permanent residence following an enjoyable respite break – and he hasn’t looked back since.
Colin visited The Lawn for a three week respite break in October 2022 and was so impressed with the care team, the care home, its facilities and the level of care he received, that he and his family thought it was the ideal place for him to live full-time.
“I saw The Lawn advertised and it appeared very attractive to my needs,” said Colin. “The care home is set in beautiful grounds, the staff are knowledgeable, friendly and sympathetic towards all their residents, so I thought it sounded ideal for me.”
Colin was in hospital following a fall and his family thought it would be better for him to recuperate at The Lawn on a respite break as he could recover in a safe, secure and caring environment.
“I can say that The Lawn lived up to all our expectations,” continued Colin. “The decision for me to spend time, heal and get back to my normal self in a safe environment, with staff who are so dedicated and hard working to achieve the care that is needed, was a good judgement call. The level of respite care I received was second to none.”
Following his respite break, Colin and his family were so impressed with The Lawn and its care team that the decision to make the care home his permanent home, was an easy one. “The care I receive is top notch, and the admission process was so quick and easy,” added Colin. “I have helpful care assistants to help me get washed and dressed before I have my breakfast in my room. My days are jam packed, there’s always something to do.”
“Normally, I watch some TV or go to one of the morning activities, exercise classes or one of the regular coffee morning. I have a delicious lunch then join in the afternoon activities. Weather permitting, I try to go for a walk around the beautiful garden every day with another resident who I’ve became good friends with as well,” Colin continued.
Born in Oxfordshire in 1940, Colin loved school, especially biology and initially went on to medical school to study. Colin’s love of the countryside stems from his childhood, as does his love of traditional, hearty food. “I do love my food,” Colin continued, “and at The Lawn, I’ve not been disappointed. The traditional English food – as well as the delicious European food on offer – is wonderful. Fish and Chip Friday is one of my favourites.”
Alina Gutu, the Registered Manager at The Lawn said: “Colin is a lovely, intelligent and interesting man and a much loved member of The Lawn family. Since arriving with us, Colin has embraced living at The Lawn and really adapted well to life here. He loves watching sport and the daily news. He told me that he thinks it’s very important to keep up-to-date with the news so we know what is going on in the world we live in.”
“I’ve never been lonely since arriving at The Lawn and I’m very happy here. I’m very well looked after, the carers are great, so caring, kind and patient. There’s always something going on to keep you entertained and engaged if you fancy it,” added Colin.
“If you are thinking about having a respite break or trying a care home out before deciding to move in properly, I’d really recommend The Lawn, it’s worth a try to see if you like it as much as me.
“Everyone at The Lawn works very well as a team and always make sure that the care facilities are right for all the residents and their families. I’m sure after careful consideration and, of course, it covers your needs, it would be the right place for you. With all the fantastic activities and good care it would be well worth considering. Everyone is really friendly; the care is excellent and it really is a home from home.”
Find out more about The Lawn care home by calling 01420 841 62 or emailing enquiries@fote.org.uk.