Do I need to change my doctor?

Residents will normally keep their own GP if they are already living in the local area. However, should you need to change your GP, there are several surgeries close to Cantelowes House from which to choose.

What about other medical services?

We have a private chiropodist who visits every six weeks. Opticians and dentists visit regularly.

What hairdressing facilities are there?

Some residents make arrangements to be visited by a particular hairdresser, but the majority use the hairdresser who visits weekly (usually on a Saturday). The fees charged are very competitive.

Is there a TV I can watch?

Each room has an ariel point so residents can have a television in their room. There is also a large screen television sited in the downstairs lounge.  There is also a small library of DVDs and videos which can be borrowed free of charge.

Can I make telephone calls?

We have a public telephone that can be used for both incoming and outgoing calls, and it is possible to have your own telephone or mobile phone in your room.  

Are there restrictions on smoking?

Residents can use the designated smoking room downstairs.  All communal areas are deemed non-smoking.  We do not permit smoking in individual rooms.

How can I get a daily paper?

Papers and magazines are delivered to the home daily, usually at about 9am. Orders can be placed through the office, and also payments can be taken here. A limited number of papers are purchased for general reading. 

Are library services available?

We maintain a good selection of books around the home including large print books.  Audio books (on cassette tape or CD) can be arranged if required.  At present a mobile library visits on a regular basis.

What other entertainment is available?

Professional entertainers visit the home on a regular basis, probably once a month, and numerous outings are arranged to theatres, dances, markets, and gardens etc. A weekly bingo session, run by volunteers on a Thursday evening, is currently popular, whilst 'music & movement', 'aromatherapy', and 'art & craft' groups are some of the regular weekly sessions that currently take place.

What are the restrictions on visitors?

Visitors are welcome at any time. There is a kitchen area in the building in which you or your visitors are able to make tea and coffee whenever you choose. We do ask that small children are supervised at all times.

Are there any restricted areas in the building?

For health & safety reasons the main kitchen is not accessible to residents or relatives.

Can I choose which staff help me?

One member of staff will be identified as your "keyworker", taking particular responsibility for your long term care needs, and assisting you by liaising with your family, GP, Social Worker etc. However, as staff work shifts, you will receive assistance from a number of different members of the team, who will all become known to you.

Are there facilities for my wheelchair / zimmer?

We have many residents who require the use of a wheelchair or zimmer frame, and the building has been designed to accommodate this. In addition we have various hoists, special baths, and a range of handrails, that should assist in allowing you to  move around and use the facilities of the home.

Can I keep valuables in my room?

A key to your room and to a locked drawer is available to you, and there is limited insurance taken out to cover your possessions. However, we would discourage the long term storage of valuables in your room. We have a safe within the building in which you can have items of value secured, and sums of money can also be lodged here. It is recommended that larger sums of money be deposited in a bank account. Please remember that some residents get forgetful and may wander off with a purse that is left unattended.

Can I bring a pet?

We currently have one cat and some tropical fish as general pets within the home.  Pets being brought in by a new resident is something that needs to be given careful consideration. A general rule of thumb is that if the pet can live happily in your own room (and doesn`t terrorise the cleaning staff!!) then it can be accommodated e.g. fish or a budgie. If the pet requires access to the communal parts of the building, or whose noise or behaviour may disturb other residents, then we would have to say no, e.g. a dog, or cat. If you are uncertain please ask.           

What about laundry?

Name tags will be provided for you.  Your clothes will be cleaned, ironed and returned to your room.  Hygiene is very important in the laundry and we pay great attention to infection control procedures, using the latest systems for the protection of our residents and staff.