The Eleanor Palmer Trust residential care home is available to those over the state retirement age, who are unable to continue living in their own homes for medical, social or practical reasons. 

The manager at Cantelowes House uses discretion regarding admission criteria (in consultation with the Clerk to the Trustees).  This is particularly relevant in cases of respite care, where the intention is for the applicant to return to his or her own home following a short stay.

Prospective residents, whether or not self-funded, should make an active choice to move into Cantelowes House following discussion with friends, family, or other advisors such as Social Services.

Range of Needs

Those who have problems with hearing or sight will find a supportive environment within Cantelowes House.  We will consider applications from wheelchair users and those who are mobile with the aid of a walking stick, or able to walk with the assistance of staff.  People needing oxygen, or who have some degree of incontinence, or a colostomy or catheter, will also be considered.  Applicants who have milder forms of Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia will be taken into account.  We have a skilled team who provide such specialised care.

Unfortunately we do not have the facilities to accommodate those in need of nursing support, or who display behavioral problems which may disturb other residents. 

Trial Period

The first four weeks of your stay at Cantelowes House is regarded as a trial period, whether or not you are self-funded.  We will do our best to make you feel at home, but it is important that your previous home remains available to you until this point.  If you are in sheltered housing, council housing, etc. you should not hand over your keys until after this period (this is quite normal and they will understand).

A meeting will be held after four weeks with the manager, your team leader and care worker, to which you may invite your family or a friend.  If you are NOT self-funded your Social Worker is also invited to attend and usually this will be your last contact with this social worker.  If you ARE self-funded this meeting is to agree that your trial period is completed and to check you are happy with your new home.  This meeting addresses any queries you may have, perhaps relating to your last home, pension, or finding a new GP.