Care home's new dementia-friendly unit gets seal of approval from Wolves legend
Residents and staff at a Wolverhampton care home were thrilled to welcome a Wolves footballing legend as he opened a new unit.
Former Wolves and England striker Steve Bull was the guest of honour at Hampton Court Care Home as he officially opened a new unit to improve quality of life for people with complex dementia.
The Lodge at the care home in Merstone Close, Bilston, will provide a safe and secure environment for up to 20 elderly residents with severe and complex dementia.
These individuals will benefit from a philosophy of care focused on improving the quality of life while dealing with the challenges of dementia.
Steve Bull cut the ribbon to officially open the unit on Wednesday and took the time to pose for photos and sign autographs for everyone who wanted one.
He said it was a beautiful place and spoke about the residents and staff being lovely and welcoming.
He said: "I thought it was a beautiful place and a great setting, and the people there are so lovely - and doing something like that is something I really enjoy.
"I do enjoy giving back to the community and when you can go somewhere like that and see the reaction of the people, who smile when you come in and want to have a photo with you, it means a lot and makes their life for them.
"For me, it's a few seconds meeting a person, but for them, it's their whole world and it's really nice to be able to do that and see the work they're going to do here."
Following a significant investment, The Lodge benefits from its own secure enclosed dementia-friendly garden and internal spaces which include a 50s-themed diner, a cinema room and a lounge/games room on the ground floor.
On the first floor, there is The Lodge's tea room, providing a lounge and dining area.
The service’s main priority is to understand individuals and help them lead as normal a life as possible whilst managing the complexities and challenges of dementia.
Hampton Court is part of the Alpha Health Care Group and is led by care home manager Gina Cirino.
She said: “We are excited with the changes that have been made at Hampton Court, we really strive to make this a special place where residents and staff feel valued, appreciated and understood.
"Steve Bull is one of our local heroes and we were delighted he agreed to officially open the new unit."
