Zetland Court hosts an afternoon of learning and connection

Caption: (From left to right) Andy Gale, Provincial Grand Almoner for Dorset Freemasons; Rebecca Smith, Business Relationship Manager; Kath Betts, MCF’s Support and Advice Team Member; Sue Wiffen, Deputy Home Manager; and Iain Slack, Home Manager.

Zetland Court, in Bournemouth, has recently welcomed Dorset Almoners and members of the Broken Column Association from Poole, Wimborne and Portland for a special visit. The event offered guests a chance to experience first-hand the friendly and caring environment, whilst meeting some of the residents and staff at the care home.

The day began with a warm welcome from Home Manager Iain Slack who shared an overview of the Home’s ethos, which centres on kindness, respect and dignity for every resident. Iain spoke about the range of care and support available at Zetland Court, which provides residential care and residential dementia support for permanent stays as well as respite care.

High-quality dementia care

Guests then enjoyed an insightful presentation on dementia care from Deputy Home Manager Sue Wiffen. Sue introduced Red Admiral View, a Dementia House within the Home where residents are supported to live life to the fullest in a safe and homely setting. She highlighted the team’s approach, which focuses on understanding each individual’s needs, preferences and life story.

The Deputy Home Manager also explained that staff members do not wear uniforms in the Dementia area. She says:

Residents aren’t really in a care home; they are at home, so they shouldn’t see people wearing uniforms.

The Home’s staff received an EMBRACE Dementia Accreditation for outstanding support, care and attention dedicated to residents living with dementia and their loved ones. The accreditation, awarded by care provider RMBI Care Co., was revealed by The Mayor of Bournemouth, Councillor Anne Filer, in an official ceremony in 2024.

To keep enhancing their services, the staff at Zetland Court set up ZetCafe24, a dementia friendly café. The aim is to provide social gatherings for people living with dementia, families and professionals in the local area, where they all can share information and experiences as well as speak openly about this condition.

Strengthening community ties

Visitors also heard from Kath Betts from the Masonic Charitable Foundation’s Support and Advice Team. Kath explained how the MCF provides practical help and emotional support to Freemasons and their families, ensuring that no one faces difficult times alone.

Provincial Almoner Andy Gale added:

Zetland Court is a wonderful care home and the staff are truly exceptional. Dementia care is second to none at Red Admiral View, and we are so lucky to have this place available to Dorset Freemasons and their families.

The visit gave everyone a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and learn more about the care and compassion at the heart of Zetland Court.

[Summary: Zetland Court in Bournemouth recently welcomed Dorset Almoners and members of the Broken Column Association for a special visit to learn more about the Home’s compassionate approach to care. Guests heard from staff about the award-winning dementia support at Red Admiral View and the Home’s commitment to creating a warm, inclusive environment for residents and their families.]