"Care of my father"

My father was a resident in Crozier House Banbridge for a long period because he was unable to access  carers to allow him to return home. He was very reluctant to go there at first but very quickly settled in.

He remarked on how kind and caring every member of staff was, nothing ever semed to be too much trouble for them. He was never made feel that he was a burden to anyone. When he called for help the carers came promptly. Not only were the carers kind and respectful but all the staff including the cleaning staff  were very kind, chatting to him a little as they went about their work- the whole building is spotlessly clean at all times.  The kitchen staff offered to make him anything he thought he would like to eat when his appetite was poor.

The staff spend time with the residents  and try to find something that they can enjoy- be it watching certain programmes on television, having sing-songs or in my father 's case finding him a comfortable seat to sit outdoors when the weather allowed it. He was a farmer and used to an outdoor life so this was very important to him.

Communication with the family was good and medical attention was  requested when he was unwell. My husband was ill at the same time as my father and not only did I feel that the staff looked after my father well but I also felt that they supported me. I feel that this unit demonstrates the level of care we would like to find everywhere in the NHS. This unit is working with the same stresses as eleswhere in the NHS but the staff always managed to make my father feel that he was important to them no matter what they were having to cope with.

Environment

Cleanliness

Room

Staff attitude

Team work