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Farmhouse - a caring home
LAST Friday, as part of my usual day of visits in and around Horsham, I enjoyed a delicious cream tea at The Farmhouse, Warnham.
Why was I there? Well, I'd been invited by Sue. The Farmhouse is home to her and her family but it's so much more than that.
I was already aware that Sue was involved in looking after local people with early stage dementia and other Alzheimer's related illnesses.
I hadn't realised the extent of the care she and her team provide and the fact that it all takes place in her home.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, Sue holds a lunch club for up to five people - I say 'lunch' club but in reality it takes place from 10am until 4pm. Lunch is preceded by a stimulating activity such as arts and crafts or singing and dancing.
After a nutritious, home cooked meal in the farmhouse kitchen, guests can relax in front of the open fire or enjoy the garden – and that's all before afternoon tea with home made cakes.
Sue also offers places for long-term residential care and has an extra space for respite care for an individual or a couple.
I met some of the people currently staying at The Farmhouse and I also met members of their families. It quickly became apparent that residents benefit hugely from living in a warm and loving family home – and of course from attending the lunch clubs and all the activities that come with them.
Residents really do become one of the family and they are encouraged to live as independently as possible, retaining their dignity but knowing that support is on hand whenever it's needed.
It's also hugely important for families to know that their loved one is in a non-institutional environment, living with people that they know and trust and in an environment in which they feel safe and secure.
It's always difficult to make the decision that you are no longer able to care for a loved one at home and I can think of no better place for them to move to than The Farmhouse.
I learnt a great deal during my visit – both about the needs of people in the early stages of dementia and about the services that Sue provides.
If any readers feel that they or a loved one could benefit from residential or respite care or from attending a lunch club, lots more information can be found at www.justforyouandthefarmhouse.co.uk.
I'd just like to conclude by saying that I am delighted that such a unique and special place exists within my constituency and that I was immensely impressed by the dedication of Sue, her family and her team.
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Weather for Horsham
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -1 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 6 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: -7 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: East
