Services - Bridge House Residential Home

THE PHILOSOPHY
The philosophy of Bridge House is to encourage each resident to preserve their individuality. All staff are committed to meeting the residents' individual physical, social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual needs so that each person retains their independence and dignity in a warm, homely and caring environment.

We hope, in removing the daily necessary tasks of cooking, cleaning, washing and ironing that the residents will be able to channel their energies into more pleasant and rewarding activities.

Through a carefully devised person-centered care plan each resident will be encouraged to maintain, and where possible, develop a meaningful quality of life. Great emphasis is placed on the mental and physical stimulation of the residents, as well as providing for their physical health needs.

Our core values are:

Privacy Dignity Rights Independence Choice Fulfillment Security Respect Equality Diversity.

All staff are appropriately trained to deliver the highest standards of care and a continuous staff training program is implemented to ensure that these high standards are constantly maintained.

RESIDENTS
Residents are assessed on their individual abilities and through a carefully devised person central care plan staff will encourage residents to be as independent as possible. We encourage everyone at Bridge House to discuss any issues they may have directly with the manager. Open and honest communication ensures we provide an excellent service.

A TRIAL PERIOD
A new resident to Bridge House will have a six week trial period. This allows both the Bridge House team and the resident to evaluate whether they are happy in the home and that the staff are able to respond to all the resident's individual needs. A 'Contract of Residence' will be signed if both parties are to agree to the permanency of the placement.

RESPITE CARE
Respite care enables carers to take 'time off' so they may have a break from caring. This allows carers to take a holiday or indulge in other commitments. One or two weeks may be arranged subject to room availability.

DAY CARE
Day care is available to give individuals in the community an opportunity to socialise regularly with others and enjoy activities and entertainment. Meals are included throughout the day.

VISITORS
There are no set visiting hours, visitors are welcome throughout the day, although they are requested to avoid mealtimes. Visitors who have travelled a long distance are invited, with prior arrangement and for a small charge, to join the resident for lunch and/or tea. It may be possible to arrange bed and breakfast locally if required.

MEALS
The cooks prepare a wide range of home cooked food from fresh ingredients. There is a varied and interesting menu. Residents choose their menu daily and special dietary requirements can be catered for. Meals are generally served in the dining room but residents can choose to eat in their room.

FURNITURE
All personal rooms are furnished with a bed, vanity unit, double door wardrobe with top shelf, a three-drawer chest, a three-drawer bedside cabinet and a small lockable cabinet. However, residents are invited to bring with them any suitable furniture, which can be accommodated within Bridge House.

TELEPHONES
A telephone is provided on the ground floor, for use by residents and visitors.
Residents may have their own telephone installed in their rooms, subject to British Telecom regulations.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Residents are encouraged to register with the local medical practice, however those wishing to remain with their present doctor may do so where practical. A visiting hairdresser and chiropodist come regularly to Bridge House, however, residents who have been used to going to their own hairdresser or chiropodist may continue to do so. Transport can be arranged for dental, optical and hospital appointments - although family members are encouraged to take residents to personal appointments.

LEISURE ACTIVITIES
A variety of interests can be pursued such as cards, dominoes, board games, keep fit and flower arranging. Choirs and performers are invited into Bridge House in consultation with residents. Art and Craft takes place regularly for those residents who wish to participate. The grounds and greenhouse provide a haven for the keen gardener and these together with a raised terraced area, overlooking the river Frome, are a source of pleasure for all the residents. Transport is provided to local clubs and outings are arranged to places of interest, concerts, theatres and shows.

Bridge House Light Railway (BHLR) operates by special arrangement - 7.25" gauge with 1/3 mile layout in the homes grounds. Dave Parnell, together with friends maintain the light railway and station regularly. The home organises 'steam ups' on Bank Holiday Mondays for all the community to enjoy.