A Brighton care home has helped to strengthen one couple’s relationship with a cosy conservatory refurbishment, kitted out for date nights with loved ones or time with family and friends.

Patcham care home, on Eastwick Close, has revamped its conservatory, which was unused and unloved, and has turned it into a private retreat for residents wishing to spend quality time with friends, family and partners.

Resident Andrew and wife Elizabeth were the first couple to use the new facilities, celebrating their wedding anniversary with a special meal prepared by head chef, Duncan Ray David.

The idea was born when Andrew became worried he would be unable to see Elizabeth on Christmas Day, which is also her birthday, as she relies on public transport. Andrew didn’t want Elizabeth to be alone on her birthday, so staff at Patcham offered to collect Elizabeth and drive her to the home.

With help from the staff, Andrew had rearranged the conservatory to create a private dining experience for them.

The couple enjoyed their day so much, staff decided to refurbish the room for date nights, or family lunches, and to provide a private space for celebrations and occasions.

Andrew said: “After having a stroke and moving into Patcham, I thought it would be much more difficult to enjoy simple things with my wife, Elizabeth, that other people take for granted. I was very wrong! The staff here are amazing and I can’t thank them enough for helping me arrange this, I’m really looking forward to the next one.”

Patricia Hurst, Home Manager at Patcham, said: “Moving into a care home alters someone’s routine and we want to give our residents the opportunity to continue to enjoy simple things such as meals with their loved ones, or birthday or anniversary celebrations.
“Our newly-refurbished conservatory helps to provide an intimate setting for families, friends and partners to visit the home and enjoy time with our residents, whilst our amazing team cater for them.”

Patcham care home is part of Wren Retirement Living and is currently managed by Healthcare Management Solutions.

www.hcsolutions.co.uk