Socialising and finding companionship at Heaton House

One of the things that sets us apart is that we are small enough to properly be a close knit community here at Heaton House. With only 14 beds, all of our residents have a chance to really get to know everyone and do things as a group. We always encourage our residents to be social and put on a variety of events that bring everyone together. 

From playing mini golf in the garden together to all sitting around the table to do some flower arranging, there’s always opportunities to spend time together.

As all of our residents are learning to live with Dementia, a lot of our residents find companionship with each other; creating a real sense of inclusion and a family spirit. With the weather really improving over the last month or so, residents are really enjoying spending time together in the garden.

Socialising in the summer house

Our summer house has become quite the hangout spot! A lot of residents enjoy sitting in there with a cup of tea to enjoy the weather. The photo above was taken a couple of weeks ago when these four lovely ladies decided to make the most of the sun. 


Within a couple of years of us having it, the summer house was converted into a safe and completely compliant COVID-19 visitor centre. Allowing our residents to still see their loved ones. Now that we’re thankfully practising more relaxed COVID-19 guidelines, it’s so lovely to see the summer house being used by the children from Little Elms nursery who have been known to enjoy their lunch in there with the ‘nannies and grandads’.

The best of friends

The lovely thing about having a small dementia care home is that all of our residents know each other. Some have even become good friends since sharing a home. 

Being in a supportive environment with other people going through a similar thing to you can be a great thing. It means that you feel supported and have a sense of togetherness. 

One of our favourite photos we’ve taken so far this year is the one below of two of our residents hand in hand as they walk around the garden. It really shows just how great our community here is and how well our residents get along.

Not just staff members

Our care team is also a hugely important part of the Heaton House family. Many of our staff have worked with us for years, starting as trainees and achieving high level qualifications as they’ve worked for us. 

They know and care for each of our residents down to tiny details, and our senior managers make sure this individualised care approach is followed across the whole team.