Belong Wigan Care Village

My mother sadly passed away in October this year having lived in Belong for 18 months after a move at the age of 95 from Kent to Wigan. She initially lived in the independent accommodation before moving into 24 hour care in Cedar House, one of the Belong units.Following a second stroke, she ended her days living in Cedar House rather than agreeing to go into hospital. Throughout her stay the opportunities for ordinary living have been varied and plentiful and whilst she was living in Cedar House, both the accommodation and her care was exceptional. I was very aware of how dedicated the staff team were to ensuring my mother lived how she wanted, received what she wanted and was helped when she needed. Particularly at the end she was shown such care and compassion. As a psychologist in the health service for over 40 years I have always been aware of the risk of care homes being a preparation for dying rather than an opportunity for living. The Cedar House team are about living! In my own organisation Through my work I know about Care Quality Commission reviews, but I dont need one to know that the quality and opportunity here is outstanding.
Original Comment Report...

My mother moved to an apartment at Belong Wigan in December 2013 to access independent living in a safe environment. By August 2014, her mixed dementia worsened to a state that it was with relief that she was taken into the household facility, where she has 24/7 care in a secure setting. Belong staff take care of her personal needs, her medication, her diet and keep a log of her activities. The staff, some more senior than others, are well trained to care for vulnerable people. They access primary care when it is necessary and they contact relatives when health issues need family input. They greet visitors with mutual respect and share relevant experiences. They arrange social events and encourage residents to join in. Belong provide peace of mind for the family that my mother gets excellent care in her later years. The high cost of this care home is appropriate to the advanced level of care.
Original Comment Report...

We can not thank Belong Wigan enough for the dedication and support all the staff have given in the care of our Mother and father ; the late William Mathieson and Edna Mary Mathieson of Willow House Belong Wigan. Our family moved our parents from Canterbury to Belong Wigan due to ill health in December 2014. Also so as i can be close to them. We cannot thank the staff of Willow house enough for caring for our parents and the dedication they have in their busy work schedule. The support we have had in the last few months we are so grateful for during our father Bills sad passing. Making it possible for all the family to be with Dad meant so much to us. The staff in the whole village are commited to making everyone feel welcome always with a smile and caring attitude. We would especially like to thank Willow House staff for making myself and my family feel welcome and i feel part of their work family always supporting us and cheering us up if we need that friendly face to talk to. keep up the good work and i certainly will recommend this wonderful place to everyone i see.
Original Comment Report...