Pam’s Already Part of the Family at Walstead Place
Deciding to make the move into a care home and finding the right one for you or your family member, can be a difficult and emotional decision for all involved. In the middle of a global pandemic things can be complicated but our teams are here to guide and help you every step of the way.
When Pam Lilley moved into Walstead Place Care Home in Haywards Heath, it meant she was closer to her family, but could also make new friends and become part of the community at the home. Since the passing of her husband Mike, her sons were worried about her living on her own. They suggested moving in with one of them, but Pam thought this would be unfair. This prompted her sons to research suitable care homes in the area near Haywards Heath, so that Pam could be close to her family – which is how they found Walstead Place.
At Walstead Place, there’s something for everyone, from the hair salon to a schedule of events and activities and picnics in the lawned gardens. If residents prefer to spend one-on-one time with a member of the team, they can read the paper, pop to the shops or have a pint in the local pub. The Home has strong connections with the Hayward Heath community, many residents invite them to join in our activities at the Home or run their own sessions here.
Walstead Place has 43 bedrooms, with beautifully appointed ensuite bathrooms. Several of the rooms enjoy views over the wonderfully landscaped gardens and picturesque countryside. The home is situated in the quiet hamlet of Walstead, just a mile from Lindfield.
Pam was born in Port Talbot, Wales, the youngest of three sisters. She spent much of her life surrounded by shipping and worked as a shipping clerk when she left school. She met her husband Mike at the port, as he worked on a boat. Married at 22, they moved to Buckinghamshire, where Mikes’ parents lived. However, shipping still played a role in her life. Mike trained to become a ship pilot and after having her three sons, the family moved back to Port Talbot, where Pam worked in the shipping office again and all her sons became ship pilots like their father.
What made you choose Walstead. Who made the decision?
“My sons went to see other homes before deciding on Walstead. They felt that what is offered here and its lovely location, would be perfect for me – and they were right,” said Pam.
“The Home Manager came to my home and met with me and my son. This made me feel very special, that they would come and visit me personally and discuss my move into the care home”.
What was the moving in experience like?
For Pam, the move to Walstead was a very smooth transition and she settled in very quickly, making new friends almost immediately.
“The move was extremely easy. I feel at home at Walstead and am enjoying all aspects of life here” explained Pam. “I really like the balance of spending time with people, but also having the freedom to do as I please”.
How are you settling in at Walstead?
“One of the main reasons I chose Walstead was the full and varied activity program that is on offer – anything from baking and music therapy to poetry readings and carpet bowls.”
Pam has really involved herself in the home community, making friends and taking part in various activities, “I have made lots of good friends and really feel safe and well looked after here”.
The Walstead team place the resident at the centre of every decision and really do their utmost to make them feel part of a community, safe and well cared for at all times.
What advice would you give other care seekers and their families?
Pam is very positive about her move to a care home, her advice would be “embrace all that is on offer and make the most of the people and the fun that can be had being part of a wonderful community”.
“If you’re thinking of moving or staying in a care home, then go for it! You never know, it could be the best thing you have ever done”.
