We’re well aware of the impact that Covid-19 has had on searching for a care home for a loved one. In normal times you would have been most likely to have made initial enquiries and then visited the care home to meet the staff and look around. Sadly, for the safety of our residents, staff and relatives this is not currently able to happen. Instead Birchwood House – our welcoming care home in the charming village of Speldhurst, near Tunbridge Wells in Kent – offers virtual tours.
What happens during a virtual tour?
Our Deputy Manager Claire makes the arrangements and welcomes visitors into Birchwood as she would on a normal tour. The virtual visit takes place using your mobile device and can still give you a glimpse into our home and the facilities available.
“The virtual tour is great alternative to a normal visit and gives relatives a real insight and a feel for Birchwood House,” explains Claire.
“We’re proud to offer a home from home in a country setting, and people tell us Birchwood feels like home the moment they step through the front door.”
As you tour through the entrance hall Claire talks to you about the care and activities on offer, and answers any questions you may have. Visitors may see our residents taking part in art and craft activities during their tour, or enjoying some home-cooked food.
You will also get to see the dining room which has stunning views of the grounds, the communal areas, the visiting pod and our bright and spacious Victorian conservatory. Birchwood House is on three levels and has a lift to all floors. There is also a hairdressing salon and a bathroom with an accessible bath.
“Many elderly residents have not been able to enjoy a bath in their own homes due to access issues, so this specially designed bath with a lift-up side is a great treat for many,” added Claire.
Will we get to view the bedrooms available?
On the tour guests will be able to view any of the available individual bedrooms. Our house has 31 bedrooms, including some doubles rooms for couples.
The other secret ingredient at Birchwood is our caring staff, all of whom are passionate about caring and highly motivated to give the best care possible to the residents. Plus we’re a very loyal and close knit team. Claire has been here for over five years and Helen, the Registered Manager, has been here for over a decade.
If you think that Birchwood is a good match for your loved one the next step is a more detailed telephone assessment to find out about your potential resident’s needs and make sure that Birchwood House can meet those needs.
“When a new resident comes into Birchwood they currently cannot be accompanied by a relative due to Covid-19, so we employ a carer to settle them into their room and stay with them so they have company, ” added Care Manager Helen Geer.
To find out more and book your tour please call 01892 863559 or email birchwood@birchwoodhouse.org.uk.
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