Date published: 01 July 2024
At Stonewater’s retirement living scheme, Whittle Court, this approach ensures that vulnerable individuals not only have a safe place to live but also receive the personalised care and attention necessary to foster their well-being and independence.
By supporting the "Starts at Home" initiative, Stonewater is highlighting its specialised services, from emotional support to practical assistance, creating a nurturing environment where residents can truly feel at home and thrive.
Here, Stonewater shares how, through the dedicated work of staff like Whittle Court’s scheme coordinator, Carol Short, it tailors its services to meet the unique needs of its customers, enhancing their quality of life and providing peace of mind to their families.
Scheme overview
Whittle Court serves as a sanctuary for its residents, offering not just a place to live, but a community where they can feel secure, supported, and valued. The facilities at Whittle Court include safety features such as VIIP (Video Intercom Integration) units, emergency pendants, and onsite staff, which contribute to the customers' sense of security.
Key Personnel: Carol Short
Carol Short, who has been with Stonewater for 24 years, plays a pivotal role at Whittle Court. Her role has evolved over the years, reflecting the changing needs of customers. Carol’s responsibilities include regular face-to-face meetings with customers, safety checks (including fire alarm testing), and providing assistance with various aspects of life such as financial management, paperwork, and rent issues. Through personalised interactions—whether via texts, calls, or face-to-face meetings—Carol ensures that each customer receives the care and attention they need.
Customer stories
New start – safe and Secure
One customer, who had fled an abusive marriage, found refuge at Whittle Court after spending six months in a women’s shelter. Arriving with very little, including her medication, she was initially fearful that her former spouse might find her. The security features at Whittle Court, including the VIIP unit and emergency pendant, provided her with much-needed reassurance. Additionally, knowing that a Scheme Coordinator like Carol was onsite gave her extra confidence.
One particular day, when she was struggling with thoughts of self-harm, Carol stepped in. The support and advice Carol provided during that conversation were crucial, offering a lifeline when it was most needed. The customer continues to receive regular check-ins from Carol, which helps her maintain her mental and emotional well-being.
Over time, they have flourished, building friendships and engaging in various hobbies such as sewing, cooking, reading, and motorbiking. The introduction of Stonewater's pet policy further enhanced her happiness, allowing her to adopt two cats that bring her daily joy. Recently, she moved into a two-person flat at Whittle Court, where she now lives with a new partner and her beloved cats, feeling safe and at home.
Moving from a damp cottage to warmth and care
Another customer moved into Whittle Court after living in a damp, cold farm cottage. At his advanced age, his primary desire was to live somewhere warm where he could enjoy watching television. After a fall, he was able to use his emergency pendant to summon help, which could have had a different outcome had he still been living in the cottage.
Now, with carers visiting four times a day and the support provided by Whittle Court, his family is reassured that he is safe. Recently, he celebrated a milestone birthday, enjoying a small tea party with friends, reflecting the improved quality of life he now enjoys.
From isolation to community
Another customer who moved from an isolated flat found a new lease of life at Whittle Court. The move transformed their experience, allowing them to participate in social activities and build meaningful friendships. The communal environment at Whittle Court, combined with the reassurance of safety and access to various facilities, has turned what was once just a living space into a true home.
Eight years of social growth
A long-term customer who has been at Whittle Court for eight years moved in after living alone. Over the years, they have become more sociable and have lived through significant changes. Even after a hospital stay due to a fall, the customer continues to engage in social activities, supported by daily visits from carers.
The impact of personalised support
Carol’s regular interactions with the 39 residents at Whittle Court, through both in-person visits and other forms of communication, are essential to maintaining a safe and supportive environment.
Stonewater’s approach to supporting customers demonstrates the importance of personalised, compassionate care in retirement living.
By addressing the unique needs of each customer and providing a secure, supportive environment, Stonewater helps residents to not only live but thrive in their later years. The stories of the customers at Whittle Court illustrate how this tailored support can transform lives, turning fear into confidence, isolation into community, and a house into a home.