Tuesday 15 December 2009

Red Belt

Everyone at The Willows would like to congratulate Sheriff on achieving his red belt at kickboxing.
Sheriff has remained focused on his kickboxing since he started training some time ago now and his commitment has paid off.
Well done!

Friday 27 November 2009

A sad farewell

Today is the last day for Karen working for Exalon Care Homes and she came back to where she started here at The Willows.
There have been tears and sadness but also very fond memories for Karen, staff and all service users.
We truly wish her well in her new role and we will all miss her very much.

End of an era

Thursday was the last managers meeting for Karen Wilkinson as she is leaving this week to start a new job.
Andrew Dykes, chairman arranged a lovely meal after the meeting for the management team which was enjoyed by all.
Although we will sad to see Karen go we wish her every success in her new position and know that she will be an asset to her new company.

Thursday 12 November 2009

65 and still going strong!

Colin has now turned 65 and celebrated in style with a party at the local hall.
The staff worked really hard to make the party a success and a great night was had by all.

Sunday 8 November 2009

Shearwater

Saturday was a chilly day but Christine, Kurt and Jamie went for a walk around Shearwater with staff and then on for a warming cuppa!
Christine is here looking all wrapped up and very happy.

Slimmer

Kurt has decided he wants to lose a few pounds so he has now registered with the local slimming club in Warminster.
Kurt is supported by a member of the staff team who is also following the diet so they can both keep an eye on each other and track their progress.
Here is Kurt at his first session looking very pleased with his decision.

Friday 30 October 2009

The 3 Amigos


Here we have our resident 3 Amigos in Poole for a day out with staff.
As the weather was so nice they all decided to go off to the coast and take in some sites as well as some old faithful seaside chips!!!
A great day was had by all.

Wednesday 28 October 2009

Wow! What a wednesday

Well this morning has already been very busy here at The Willows.
Keith, Kurt, Jamie, Ian and John are having a lads day out with two male staff members and have headed of for the day camera in hand to the coast, pictures to follow.
Sue and Christine have headed of for a girls shopping day with a female member of staff.
Sheriff s off to visit family, Grazina is going over to Salisbury to get her hair cut and Colin is off to town to get some shopping for a homemade curry, yummy.

Monday 26 October 2009

Disney Dream

Last week Kurt fulfilled a dream and went to Disneyland Paris with support from a member of staff.
Kurt flew out of Bristol airport monday morning after an early call from the night staff and arrived in France early afternoon.
Here you can see Kurt as the ruler of the kingdom a great time was had by both Kurt and the member of staff.

Tuesday 20 October 2009

National Trust Day

Even though the weather was not so great today the service users still managed to go out for a great day.
Grazina, Keith, Ian, Colin and Jamie went out with 2 staff members for a wander around a national trust site and have a picnic.
A breath of fresh air for all was had.

Sunday 18 October 2009

Sunny sunday


As it was such a lovely sunny sunday afternoon some of the service user went over to the National Trust at Stourhead for a walk.
Colin, Sue and Keith went with two staff members for a few hours to enjoy the autumn sun.

Car cleaning


Sunday is a day that the cars get cleaned at the Willows and this week was the turn of Keith with Grazina.
Grazina gets on with the hoovering and here you can see Keith with hose in hand ready to rinse after giving the outside a good scrub.

Tuesday 13 October 2009

Ready for snow....?


Christine went to a boot sale on sunday and found a warm hat ready for the winter and decided that she would model it for Steve this morning.
Here we have a very happy Christine doing her pose for the camera.

Gateway Club



Monday nights are Gateway nights for the service users at the Willows that wish to go. Its a great place to meet some mates outside of work or college.
Last night Kurt and Keith had a great night catching up with some mates and having a dance.

Monday 12 October 2009

Update from Philip


Philip Norris is a support worker that has taken a year out and is being sponsored by Exalon during his time out there.... this is an update of his time there so far.

This month has been rough for me, I failed my truck driving test. Although I was told that my driving on the other side of the road is good, I was too obliging to other traffic and need to drive more aggressively like the Israelites. So with failing that my emotions nose-dived and I then hit what they call "culture shock" which usually happens about the 3 month mark and then again at 6 and 9 months periods. I have been really low and emotional with even having thoughts of coming back. I have felt very lonely these last few weeks and my roommate and I are on two completely different levels and in fact have nothing in common at all. I have not made any friends here in Karmiel but have a couple of friends near Tel Aviv which i have been traveling to see on the odd weekend but although the travel is reasonably cheap, when you don't have a lot it kind of eats away into it. I have been told that my low emotions are apparently normal in this type of work.

I am amazed at how much I took for granted like my car and regular money and new clothes when I need them, and here I don't have that.

Because I live in the north, in fact 15 miles from the Lebanese border, just before the holidays we were all given an evacuation leaflet and what to do in the event of war. The Lebonese like to bomb Israel when its their Holy time of the year. So a few days before i saw the military everywhere, helicopters, tanks, jeeps all over the place and on top of that everynight I hear the jet fighters fly over my apartment patrolling the skies. In the event of war we are meant to evacuate into our bomb shelter in the basement and pack provisions for at least 2 days but if this happens it is my job to deliver food to the people who can not get out of their homes, so in fact I would have drive into the war zones to help others. Scary thought isn't it?

So I have my 2nd driving test on monday at 8.00am (6am uk time) and hopefully this time I will get it. I have to get it as its the reason I am here, to deliver food.

So we are now delivering 60 tons of food all over Israel to the needy. When I am not delivering with the other driver who is leaving soon due to his visa coming to an end, I am packing wooden pallets read to deliver. I pack a few tons of food a day so by the end of the day I am tired.
Anyway, please say a pray for me for Monday, I have to pass.
Philip Norris

My day out


As promised in yesterdays post we now have pictures of the day out that Kurt had.
Kurt with a support worker went to Bristol to get all his new clothes and a digital camera ready for his holiday. Kurt went out at 10.30 in the morning and didn't get back until 9.30.... and had a fab time.
I wonder if these are some new friends Kurt has made while shopping....

Sunday 11 October 2009

Sunday life

Well what a busy sunday we are having.
Kurt has gone to Bristol for the day to get his new clothes for his upcoming euro disney holiday in a weeks time, camera in hand so pictures to follow tomorrow.
Christine and Sue went to the car boot sale and get a few bits of shopping that was needed for the house.
Keith went out for an afternoon pint which was very much enjoyed.
Jamie has gone into town for a wander around after cleaning his room.
Grazina and John washed and vacuumed the cars.
Ian, Colin and Sheriff are chilling and watching sunday afternoon films while the deputy manager is cooking for all....... well thats a first!!
And some think sundays are boring, well not at The Willows.

New Forest Ponies

Wow what a lovely scene.
On route to Bournemouth in the New forest everyone enjoyed a ramble with the wild life as it was such a lovely day.
Here is Kurt with the wild New Forest ponies.

Raspberry picking


As it was such a nice day saturday Keith, Kurt, Colin, Grazina and Ian went out for the day to the New Forest and Bournemouth and came across a fruit farm where they stopped and picked lots of fresh raspberries. A great fun day had by all.

Friday 9 October 2009

Forget the X factor!!!!

We have the wow factor!!!
Wow is how the garden has been described by many people that have been to visit the Willows over the last few months.
As you can see here the garden is looking fantastic and is full of early Autumnal bloom.
We are so lucky to have such a magnificent view from the office window and the garden is being enjoyed by all in the house.

Thursday 8 October 2009



On a wednesday Keith and John both go to a carpentry class at Trowbridge college to learn some new skills. John used to attend Aston Street on a wednesday but once the college courses were offered to him he was more than happy to pursue a new adventure to broaden his knowledge and skills.
Keith attended the course last year and enjoyed it so much that he enrolled for the second year and is thoroughly enjoying it again.... Nice one lads.

Wednesday 7 October 2009

The kick boxer!


Sheriff has taken up a new sport of kick boxing and he goes over to Trowbridge on a tuesday and thursday to learn his new skills. Sheriff has been very keen to find something that will help maintain his physical health and this is proving to be a very good way to do this. Well done Sheriff.

Monday 5 October 2009

Kurt on domestic duties


On friday Kurt was very helpful in the kitchen with a mop and bucket at hand. Kurt has been very busy over the last week with his decorating and now being involved with the domestic duties. Well done Kurt!!!

Its my birthday


On saturday afternoon Grazina celebrated her 40th birthday with some family and fellow house mates. A party was held around the corner in the conservative club where a buffet was enjoyed by all.

Thursday 1 October 2009

Finally we captured him!


We have been waiting for such a long to get a picture of Jamie on the blog and finally it was achieved today!
Jamie went into town with a member of staff to get the house shop and seemed to enjoy the time spent with his keyworker.
Jamie said he is a hugh fan of rice pudding and came home with a few bargains that he found while out doing the shopping!

Kick boxer in the making


Sheriff has taken up a new sport with one of our new members of staff that is a qualified kick boxer trainer.
Today Sheriff went into town to get some new clothes ready to attend his training sessions and I must say is looking very smart!

Busy Thursday


Thursday mornings is a flurry of activity at Trowbridge college for some of our service user's. Five have chosen to take part in the pottery class and this week some great moments of Ian were captured on camera of Ian.

Kurt's new colours

Phase two of the decoration process started for Kurt on wednesday evening. He was supported by a member of staff to start adding a touch of colour to his walls.
Maybe this could be a start of a new trade for him?
Well done Kurt!


Kurt has said as part of his PCP that he wanted to redecorate his bedroom ready for new furniture that is on order.
A member of staff, Kurt and Colin went into town on wednesday to get the paint and rollers ready for the job in hand.

Thursday 24 September 2009

Pottery class

Thursday mornings are very busy for five of the housemates at the Willows. Keith, Ian, Sue, Christine and Kurt have joined up with Trowbridge college to take part in pottery.
Here you can see a very happy Keith preparing to paint a tile that he had made last week. A fun morning had by all.

In the park

As it was such nice morning and most of Colin's housemates had gone to college a member of staff took to Warminster park for some fresh air and a change of scenery.
Colin seems to like chilling in the park and watching the wildlife go about the business.

Wednesday 23 September 2009

On a wednesday afternoon Colin and a member of staff have a taxi to Trowbridge college to take part in a relaxation session.
Yesterday Colin spent some time in the area with all the stimulating lights and appeared calm and relaxed for his two hour session.

Tuesday 22 September 2009

Weymouth holiday

Sue was supported by a staff member from the Willows for a few days last week in Weymouth for a short break.
Sue and staff travelled from Warminster to Weymouth on the train then got into a taxi which took them to the guest house that Sue had decided that she wanted to stay in.
While away Sue enjoyed the gentle September sea breeze and sunshine, a few drinks in neighboring pubs and the odd ice cream.
Sue came home to the Willows after a very pleasant stay and informed the staff that she would love to return next year.

Monday 21 September 2009

Sunny saturday


On saturday due to the weather being so nice Ian, Kurt and Keith went to Bournemouth in the morning to have a walk along the beach and enjoy ice cream in the sun. As the weather was good they decided to spend the whole day at the beach enjoying the sea air and didn't return home until 6 p.m.

Horse riding

Grazina went to the local army barracks on friday with staff support to have a horse riding lesson.
In this picture you can see Grazina after a successful mount on the horse that she choose to ride on friday.
Grazina had a great time and will be going riding again in a month.

Friday 18 September 2009

College

Christine attended college for the first time this week and as you can see from this picture she really enjoyed herself getting stuck into her pottery class.

Christine made a start on a bowl that she intends to paint and glaze over the coming weeks.

Thursday 17 September 2009

Time for tea


Keith has been supported in the kitchen this afternoon to help prepare and cook dinner for his fellow house mates. Here you can see a very happy Keith keeping a beady eye on his fresh carrots that should go nicely with the homemade cottage pie.

Enjoying the September sun


As it was such a nice afternoon some of the staff took Ian, Colin, Jamie, Kurt and Sheriff over to Trowbridge park so they could enjoy some open spaces to play a few ball games. Colin and Ian were happy to watch on as 3 of their fellow housemates enjoyed playing tennis and rounders. A fun afternoon had by all.

Monday 14 September 2009

On friday Colin went with a member of staff to the local Centre Parcs at Longleat where he appeared very relaxed while enjoying the different surroundings that was on offer to him which included a spa and bubble room.
After spending time on the water beds Colin had a 2 course lunch, then in the afternoon walked around the lake and in the woods before returning home happy and relaxed.

Monday 7 September 2009

Wayne Anderson

Wayne has recently completed his level 3 qualification in Health & Social Care, this is a fantastic achievement both personally and professionally and we would like to other him all our congratulations.

Thursday 3 September 2009

Deputy Manager

Following a successful interview earlier this week I am pleased to announce that Gay Longhurst has been appointed as Deputy Manager here at The Willow's.

Gay has been working within the care sector for numerous years with experience in both the private and public sector.

Gay has been working at The Willows as home administrator for just over 1 year has has vast experience not only of the operational running of the home but also the support requirements for each of the service users living at The Willows.

Gay will be an amazing asset to the management team and we all wish her all the best in her post.

Well done Gay.

Wednesday 26 August 2009

College Courses

Our service user's have all now had their acceptance letters from Trowbridge college and they include foundation studies in relaxation, catering skills, photography, pottery, handling money and independent living skills.
These courses will be starting on the 14th September 2009 and we know from last year that our service user's throughly enjoyed every aspect of their time at college.

Saturday 25 July 2009

Inspection

On Thursday of last week our long awaited unannounced inspection took place, our inspector was here for the whole day and saw plenty of evidence of the improvements and work completed over the past year.

She spent a lot of time talking with individual service users and staff, I believe this really enabled her to get a clear picture of the brilliant work we have all been involved with.

The initial feedback from the day although brief was very positive, highlighting especially on the increased activities and the person centered approach that has been established and is offered to everyone.

We now awaiting the draft inspection report which we expect to receive mid way though August, this of course will also award us with our new star rating, which we hope will have increased and therefore give us the formal recognition that we feel we have achieved.

Tuesday 21 July 2009

New Forest

Sue had a fantastic trip to the New Forest at the end of last week, she really enjoyed a brisk walk through the trees - on what was one of the few dry days of late! before a pub lunch.

This picture really captures her enjoyment of the day.

Friday 17 July 2009

Keith Fishing

Keith enjoyed a day's fishing with Wayne yesterday over at Shearwater lake, just outside Warminster.

The weather held at for most of the day, but then the heavens opened and both got rather wet! but they caught a few fish so both were happy.

Monday 6 July 2009

Truckfest

On saturday John and Kurt went over to Shepton Mallet in Somerset with a member of the staff team from The Willows to take a look at all the trucks.

The weather was fantastic and all 3 had a great time and even had the chance to meet the "Ice Road Trucker" Rik Yemm

Wednesday 1 July 2009

Garden opening

We had a fantastic day yesterday at our eagerly awaited garden opening, the weather was brilliant sunshine throughout, which helped to ensure everyone had an enjoyable afternoon.

We were joined by many family, friends associated professionals as well as Jane the designer of the garden and Tristan the landscaper.

Our sister home The Oaks based in Malvern, Worcestershire also came to enjoy the afternoon with us.

In this picture is a journalist from The Warminster Journal capturing the joy of some of the service users and staff with the designer and landscaper.


Monday 29 June 2009

Final preperations

We are making final preparations for the opening of our newly landscaped garden tomorrow from 12noon - 3pm.

The local press will be coming in to take some pictures and do an article for their paper later in the week.

As you can see from the picture the garden has become well established over the past couple of months, all the Service Users are really enjoying their new surroundings.

We look forward to welcoming everyone tomorrow and look forward to seeing you then.

Tuesday 23 June 2009

New staff

We would like to introduce and welcome Martin and Marilyn to our staff team, both have this week started their positions as waking night support workers here at The Willows.

Marilyn has returned to work with us after a year working in other settings for different organisations.

We are Martins first employment in the care sector although he has a vast personal experience.

We would like to wish them both all the very best and look forward to involvement in the coming years.


Thursday 18 June 2009

Decorating

Prior to going on holiday Ian choose the paint that he wanted his room decorated in, as you can see Jamie a fellow Service User has been busy helping one of our support workers Charlotte to complete the painting in preparations for Ian's return from his week at Butlins.

Jamie has a keen interest in art and design and has really enjoyed not only taking part in the decorating but also showing us staff how it should be done!

Jean Smith

Yesterday we all said goodbye to Jean Smith after a number of years working as a support worker here at The Willows.

Jean has over the years taken part in numerous activities and Service User Holidays ranging from Cornwall to Spain.

Jean was one of the first members of staff employed at The Willows and has over the years formed numerous relationships with Service Users and Staff and will be greatly missed - we would like to wish her every success in both her personal and professional future.

Friday 12 June 2009

College presentation

Grazina, Ian, Kieth and Kurt enjoyed the afternoon at the local college were they received their individual certificates for the courses that they have participated in and successfully completed over the past year.

This is a fantastic achievement for them all and we would like to offer them our congratulations.
Everyone is in the process of and very much looking forward to choosing their courses for the coming term.


Tuesday 2 June 2009

Garden completion

The garden landscaping has now been completed, although finishing touches are being made to paint work etc.
As you can see this has resulted in total transformation of the rear garden and is now being used to it's full potential, with the good weather we have had lately, we have had several BBQ's especially over the bank holiday weekend.

Invitations to the formal opening of the garden has have been distributed and so far the response is very good with a wide selection of family, friends and associate professionals attending.

Monday 18 May 2009

Grazina's holiday

Grazina enjoyed a weeks holiday at Butlins last week - making the most of the good weather and enjoying all the entertainment, especially the singing and bingo - the red coats could have a new recruit on their hands!

As you can see from the picture Grazina was really relaxed throughout the week.

Please note the date on Grazina's camera only a few years out, but it's her own camera and she wanted staff to use it rather than the homes, so please take our word for it being only last week!

Thursday 14 May 2009

Garden planting

The planting has now almost been completed in our rear garden and has had a dramatic impact on the over all look and effect of the landscaping.

All the service users watched with amasement, the speed of progress made by Tristan and his team whilst undertaking the planting, luckily the weather remained dry and bright for them and then rain over night which i am sure will assist the plants to become established.

Even the water feature was plumbed in and operational by the end of the day.

Furniture has now been ordered and we are expecting delivery in the coming weeks, which i am sure will again transform the look.

Thursday 7 May 2009

Garden landscaping

The landscaping of the rear garden is now nearing completion with the planting due to be taking place early next week, as you can see the 
transformation is really taking shape.

Having such a dry period has enabled the landscapers to proceed at speed (taking into account the usual weather!).

The official opening of the garden is due to take place on Tuesday 30th June 2009, invites will be delivered in the coming weeks.