Cooksons Court celebrates 10 years of supporting residents like Geoff to live the life they choose
As Cooksons Court nursing home in Yeovil prepares to celebrate 10 years since opening its doors to residents later this week (19th September), the team have been reflecting on all those they have supported over the past decade.
Caring for thousands of individuals
Part of the not-for-profit Somerset Care Group, Cooksons Court has supported more than 2,160 residents with residential care, nursing care, respite breaks and dementia support since the purpose-built care home opened in September 2015. Among that number is Geoff, who moved into the home in October 2023 following an extended respite stay.
Geoff lives with dementia, which can sometimes lead to him feeling confused, overwhelmed and frustrated. When his increasing support needs became challenging for his wife, Julia, to safely manage at home, Geoff made the move to Cooksons Court.
Julia explains the circumstances of Geoff’s move to Cooksons Court, and how the home eased the transition into his ‘second home’:
“The decision to move my husband, Geoff, into a care home came after a rapid decline in his wellbeing. There was no time for a gradual transition; he needed professional, ongoing support right
away.
Finding the right place
“It was essential to find a facility quickly, but also one I could trust to treat Geoff with dignity and compassion. Cooksons Court in Yeovil was recommended by a friend, and that prior knowledge was incredibly reassuring. Hearing from someone with direct experience made a difficult decision feel more manageable.
“The move was emotionally challenging. The staff at Cooksons Court were kind and gentle, but the change was still difficult for both of us. Geoff was very confused and unsettled at first, and I left the first evening feeling devastated, knowing the decision was necessary but missing our daily life together.
Adjusting to a new environment
“Geoff had a hard time adjusting in the early days. I visited every day, brought familiar things to his room, and spent time with him. Gradually, he started to settle in. The staff took a real interest in getting to know his routines and personality, and I began to truly trust their care.
“Geoff gradually began to feel like part of the Cooksons community. The staff developed a genuine understanding of his character and encouraged him to take part in activities and express himself when possible. The management’s strong vision of high quality and responsiveness, together with the low staff turnover, really stand out, especially in these challenging times.
“For us, Cooksons Court became a place of stability and in many ways our second home and port in a storm.
Integration and care
“Geoff is now surrounded by kind professionals who understand his needs, and I am very much a part of the Cooksons “team” as his wife and regular visitor. I have been embraced and supported by management and staff.
“The journey may be difficult, but it can also be filled with grace and not least of all moments of laughter and fun! The transition was sudden and tough, but I’m genuinely relieved and grateful that he is safe, well-supported, and respected.”
A decade of tailored care
Kristie Chubb, Registered Manager of Cooksons Court, adds:
“At Cooksons Court, we recognise that the 2,000 people we have supported over the past 10 years are individuals who not only have unique care needs, but who, like Geoff, also have their own life stories to tell. It is our privilege to provide specialist care for each and every one of them, as we also support their loved ones though what can be an emotionally challenging transition into care.
“We are proud to be marking this milestone in the life of our care home, recognising what those 10 years have meant, and continue to mean, to those we support and the community in which we live and work.
A time of celebration
“Along with our residents, team and local community, we are looking forward to celebrating 10 wonderful years of Cooksons Court with a day of entertainment and community spirit on Friday 19th September. Here’s to the next 10 years!”
Supporting people to live the life they choose
For information and advice about the residential, nursing, dementia and respite care available at Cooksons Court in Yeovil, please click on the buttons below or contact our expert enquiries team on 0800 817 4927.
