A letter of thanks for care
Following the passing of my 95 year-old mother, Eileen, on 7th April 2017, I am writing this as a thank you from the family and also to record the wonderful kindness and care she received over the years since she arrived at Fairfield in August 2014.
The staff are kind, respectful and caring towards the residents and my mother, who was a lady of very few words, would always say, “they are very kind here.’ It was reassuring to her and to her family that she was being well looked after, especially when there are so many reports in the media where this is not the case.
It was noticeable how many of the staff have worked at Fairfield for many years which is testament to the management team and to the ethos of the home. This meant that both mum and the family would always see a familiar face and also someone who knew her well. In particular we would look forward to seeing Lillian (mum’s main carer) who showed mum great kindness and respect.
The sad part is that mum didn’t remember the activities she joined I with, the paintings she created and the music she enjoyed, but we know that she and the other residents had many opportunities to pursue the things they enjoy. On one of our visits, Jane was involved in discussing with the residents about what activities they would like to continue and those that they would like dropped. They were asked to comment on the menu and possible visits from people from the community. All of this showed how much importance the staff place on making life more pleasant and interesting for the residents and listening to their point of view.
It was noticeable how many of the staff have worked at Fairfield for many years which is testament to the management team and to the ethos of the home.
As part of her care, mum was always clean, dressed in her own clothes and given hair and nail trimming. The food was always nicely presented and served in a pleasant dining room. She had always been a churchgoer and it was arranged that each Sunday (when she was well) she would be collected by a member of the church. Sometimes she would be late back for lunch but it would be saved for her and served up hot on her return.
When mum became poorly with a weak heart, Alison and Jo kept in touch with our family throughout. We consulted together over what would be best for mum on her return and their dedication to her comfort in the last few weeks was exceptional. It was a comfort to us that Alison was with her at the end.
We wish the staff all the very best for the future of the home in its new setting and thank them for everything they did for our mother.
Mary Stewart, daughter
29/04/17
