Introducing Betty – Resident Ambassador at Laverstock Care Centre
When Betty first met the team at Laverstock Care Centre, it was on behalf of her husband Ted. Now, as the home’s Resident Ambassador, Betty is a much-loved member of the Laverstock family.
Betty’s journey with Laverstock Care Centre in Salisbury began long before she moved into the home herself. She recalled, “We were looking for a place for my dearest husband, Ted, and we had looked at several. Some had a long waiting list, while others were not suitable. Then we found Laverstock, and that is where he came to live”.
Sense of Belonging with Big Happy Family
Ted enjoyed regular visits from Betty who spent many, many hours with him. She also appreciated the support that her husband was given and explained, “The staff at Laverstock took wonderful care of Ted, as he was blind and living with dementia. Living at Laverstock is like living with one big happy family. All the carers are very caring and helpful”.
Betty became a familiar face – someone that residents, their families and members of the team looked forward to seeing. Sadly, Ted passed away last year, but Betty found that the friendships she had made and the sense of belonging at Laverstock stayed with her. It was this feeling that led Betty to decide to move into the home, knowing she would be safe, supported, and surrounded by people who genuinely cared for her.
Positivity, Reassurance and Companionship
Since joining the team and her fellow residents at Laverstock, Betty has made a big impact, and her role as Resident Ambassador is based on the wonderful support she gives to residents who are new. Home Manager, Erin, described Betty as “…. bringing so much positivity to the home. She takes new residents under her wing, offering reassurance, companionship, and a friendly face during what can often feel like an overwhelming transition”.
Family Time and a Very Special Rose
Betty enjoys getting involved in activities organised by the Wellbeing team for residents at Laverstock and she also looks forward to frequent visits from her family, who mean everything to her. A recent visit included Betty's two great-grandsons who brought a memorial plaque to the home as a tribute to Ted’s memory. The plaque was placed beside a beautiful rose in the front garden – a rose with special significance as it was carefully taken from Betty and Ted’s own garden and replanted at Laverstock by the home’s Senior Maintenance Officer, Marty.
Betty’s Newsletter Entry
Betty is a big fan of Marty, one of two maintenance officers, who she credits for the garden’s fine appearance, but she’s also appreciative of the team as a whole, as recently shared in a column she wrote for the home’s newsletter:
“Laverstock has a wonderful team of nurses, both day and night, and they are always at hand. There are also many staff in the kitchen making sure we are all fed properly and doing a wonderful job. The wellbeing team take care of the activities and entertainment, along with all sorts of other jobs in between, such as manicures and men’s grooming. Last but not least, there are all the cleaners and laundry staff, who all do a good job. Somehow, I almost forgot all the office staff who help to keep the home running smoothly — or so we hope!”
The feeling is mutual and Betty’s warmth, resilience and caring nature continue to inspire everyone at Laverstock, who feel extremely lucky to have her as part of the family.
A Place to Call Home at Laverstock Care Centre in Salisbury
If you're looking for a care home in Salisbury that feels like home from the moment you walk in, Laverstock Care Centre could be just what you’re seeking. Homely furnished and full of natural light, our care home offers residential, nursing, dementia and palliative care all under one roof. With comfortable lounges and an on-site hair salon, your loved one can relax and feel their best every day.
From the very first visit, families find peace of mind knowing we offer a true home for life, where additional dementia or nursing support can be seamlessly provided when needed.
Call us on 01723 333 394 to book your personal visit
