Pam’s World: Entering Altered Reality. An Insight from Edenmore Nursing Home

Understanding how to support someone living with a Dementia is not always straightforward. As memories disappear, the way a person experiences the world can shift, and what feels real to them may not match the present moment. This means we are sometimes navigating a reality that is different from our own.

This piece shares an insight into how care teams respond in those moments, focusing on something known as therapeutic lying, and why it can sometimes be the kindest approach. Through Pam’s story, we explore what it means to step into someone else’s reality to help them feel safe, understood and at ease, and why insisting on the ‘truth’ can sometimes cause unnecessary distress, rather than comfort.

Therapeutic Lies in Practice

A therapeutic lie is a thoughtful, compassionate response used to reduce anxiety and meet someone in their current reality. If a person asks for their mother, father or loved one, forgetting that they are no longer with us, correcting them may re-open grief or make the loss feel as though it is happening for the first time.

Softly reassuring them that their loved one has popped out to the shops can provide comfort and emotional safety. Alternatively, gentle redirection of the conversation, or asking if they would like to go for a walk, can help them focus on something else and reduce anxiety.

Rather than focusing on factual accuracy, therapeutic lying is about protecting someone’s emotional world. By not correcting or challenging their reality, we can reduce feelings of confusion or distress. Instead, we meet them where they are, offering reassurance and support so they can feel safe and understood.

Pam, 80 years young and living at Edenmore for just over four years, has a learning disability and lives with a Dementia. For her, comfort comes from a place that might surprise others but makes perfect sense within her world.

Reassurance, connection and touch are deeply important to Pam. She is soothed by holding hands and becomes anxious if she does not feel close to someone. When she feels overwhelmed, lying down with her favourite soft toys, especially Tony the squirrel, helps her settle.

When Pam was very young, she won Tony in a lucky dip, a story that she shares often with those around her. He has stayed with her ever since, becoming something she is deeply attached to. To Pam, Tony is not simply a soft toy, but an incredibly real and important relationship in her life.

For someone living with a Dementia, objects, people or routines may take on a strong emotional meaning, and these attachments can bring a sense of reassurance and familiarity.

Tony also plays an important role in supporting Pam’s health. If she does not feel like eating, the team will offer a little food to Tony first, which can often encourage her. If she doesn’t want to drink water, they will try pouring it into her small doll’s tea set and offer it to Tony, which can also gently prompt her to drink. These routines have been created by the team and come from their understanding of Pam’s history and what is most important to her.

When Tony’s stuffing began to come out, and his ears and arms became worn, there was a concern that losing him could cause Pam real upset. Clinical Lead Teresa, who enjoys sewing, took him home and carefully stitched new ears and arms onto him. Tony was returned safely to Pam, restored and whole, preserving not just a soft toy, but a source of comfort and continuity in her day-to-day life.

For people who may not understand how important this relationship is to Pam, it may seem like the right thing to do to tell her Tony is ‘not real’ and try to correct her perspective. But by recognising how important Tony is to Pam, and respecting that her connection to him is a very real relationship in her world, the team help her to feel safe and secure, rather than causing confusion and upsetting the way she understands and experiences things around her.

Is it Right to Lie?

There is not always a simple answer when it comes to whether telling the truth or offering a therapeutic lie is the ‘right’ thing to do. There are moments that ask us to consider what will best support someone’s wellbeing and the focus shifts from being right, to being kind.

Therapeutic lies, when used thoughtfully and responsibly, are acts of care. They allow people like Pam to feel safe, valued and emotionally held in a world that no longer behaves as it once did - recognising that, in moments of confusion, Pam’s version of the truth is the one that matters most.

Edenmore Nursing Home provides 24-hour nursing and residential care, supporting each person to continue living a life that feels meaningful and true to who they are.

 

Pupils Help Decorate New Lounge at North Devon Nursing Home

Schoolchildren from Ilfracombe Junior School recently visited Edenmore Nursing Home to help add some sea-inspired decorations to the home’s newly refurbished lounge.

During the afternoon, family members (residents) and the children painted small wooden fish, which have now been hung in the new lounge as part of the room’s décor.

The space has been refreshed with nautical and seaside-inspired touches, shaped by Edenmore’s coastal setting and sea views. One of the feature walls includes a fishing net and starfish, where the painted fish are now displayed!

Some of the pupils had visited previously for the home’s VE Day celebrations, but this time the whole Year 3 class came along! Visits like these have become a lovely way of keeping the home connected to the local community and bringing different generations together.

Family members Susan and Adrian particularly enjoyed the visit. Susan spent time carefully painting alongside the pupils, while Adrian enjoyed walking around the room, chatting with different students.

Once the fish had been painted, the class was invited upstairs for a sneak peek at the new lounge. They were asked to guess where their decorations would be displayed, with many quickly spotting the fishing net feature where they have now been hung.

Before heading back to school, the children performed a poem for the family members, ending the afternoon on a lovely note.

Team member Emma shared about the day, ‘It was a lovely afternoon for everyone. The children absolutely love spending time with Susan, and they loved seeing the new lounge. They actually gasped when they walked in the room!’

The new lounge has now officially opened and is already being enjoyed by family members. On the day of the opening, family member John particularly enjoyed spending some time with Doug, the home’s project manager, with the pair sharing a conversation about tools. When John learned Doug had been part of the team responsible for the room’s new look, he shook his hand and said, ‘Thank you. I love it, it’s amazing.’

The refurbishment is part of several projects taking place throughout the home, helping to create spaces that feel welcoming, comfortable and engaging for the people who live and work there. 

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Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing and residential care by the North Devon coast. To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

 

Ilfracombe Nursing Home Shares Reflections from Jillian

For individuals whose mobility have changed over time, moving around can become difficult or painful, meaning receiving care in bed may become the most comfortable and supportive option for them. Whether through need or personal choice, a bedroom can become far more than four walls. It becomes a sanctuary, filled with familiarity, comfort and the small things that make somewhere feel like home.

It’s so important that their space reflects them as a person, surrounding them with the things that really matter to them, both emotionally and physically. What might matter deeply to a person is often shaped over the course of a life, through the people they love, the places they’ve visited and the experiences that have stayed with them.

Spending time with Jillian, a family member (resident) at Edenmore Nursing Home, it was clear to see how the environment around her reflected the person she is and the things that continue to matter to her today.

Early Life on the Farm

Born in 1938, Jillian was just one year old when the war started. Her family lived on a farm in Powys, Wales, and her father was a sheep farmer. Her mother was a homemaker, taking care of the household and raising the children. Jillian had an older brother, and later, she would have two younger sisters. She remembers her parents to be generous and kind people. She doesn’t recall too much of being very young but shares, ‘I’m sure I was sometimes naughty like any child!’

During the war, she remembers prisoners of war coming to work on the farm from a nearby camp. She shares that they were lovely, ‘They just wanted to go back to their families, who they missed very much. My parents were very kind and really took them in. They also helped them send packages of food back to their loved ones.’

School, Friendship and a Love of French

When she was seven or eight years old, the family moved to a farm in Ombersley, Worcestershire. There she attended a private school in Worcester called Sunnyside, where she became friends with some girls who she remains in contact with still today. From her school days she still remembers how afraid they were of the headmistress, ‘I’m sure she was a perfectly nice lady, but she was strict and scared us.’

Jillian became pen pals with a girl in Paris around this time, and the two ended up doing an exchange and visiting each other’s homes and living with their families for a few weeks. She loved it, and her pen pal’s family were very friendly and welcoming and took her around Paris.

As she moved through school, her favourite subject unsurprisingly became French. She also loved athletics, particularly running and high jumping and even competed at national level.

University, Marriage and Family Life

When she had completed school, she went on to study French at Cardiff University. This was where she met her future husband, Bill, who was also studying. He was from Aberdeen and had sadly lost both his parents but had a very lovely uncle and aunt. Jillian and Bill married when she was twenty-three and moved to Maidenhead, in time having their two children, Tim and Bethany.

Jillian went on to teach French at a grammar school. The students were, for the most part very engaged and well behaved. But there was of course the odd one or two difficult pupils who made mean comments to make everyone laugh and played the class clowns. One of the things Jillian loved most about her teaching role was the friendships she grew with the other teaching staff.

Later, they began to move around a lot for Bill’s work, living in Brussels and even Connecticut for a while, before moving back to the UK. During this time, she continued to teach French through tutoring. She describes their marriage simply: “We got on very well, we had a lot of the same interests and friends. Of course, no one is perfect, but I can’t remember any real problems.”

When they moved to England, Jillian worked for several years at a Waterstones in Windsor. She loved to read and so really enjoyed working there, and she was responsible for setting up open readings with authors when they were promoting their new books. Through this role she met several famous authors, including Sir David Attenborough! She still remembers the queues of people waiting outside for their signed copies of books.

Moving into Edenmore

In later life, Jillian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. As she began to need more support, she moved into Edenmore Nursing Home, close to where her son, Tim, lives. Tim visits often and regularly brings his two dogs with him, who jump up onto Jillian’s bed to say hello. Today, Jillian is cared for in bed, as her needs now mean she is most comfortable there.

More Than Just a Bedroom

In Jillian’s bedroom, an antique bureau from her previous home stands against one wall, its surface covered in photographs of her family, captured moments holding much meaning. She talks through the places they were taken, the names of her siblings, children, children-in-law and grandchildren. One of these is a silver-framed image from her wedding day, showing her and her husband, Bill, standing hand in hand on the church steps.

On the opposite wall, artwork sits alongside a framed record by Edward Elgar, one of her favourite composers. A large mirror has been carefully positioned so that, from her bed, she can see out through the window. It is here that her attention often rests, watching birds move between rooftops and wires. Blue tits and robins are some of her favourites.

By the door, a small set of drawers holds a vase of fresh flowers, sent each week by her daughter, who also calls every day – on this particular day, she is calling from the Bahamas.

What Matters Most

When asked what matters most to her today, her answer is simple: ‘Family.’ There is much love behind the word. She continues, ‘I am very lucky. And they spoil me.’

When asked what else is important to her, she shares, ‘It sounds ridiculous or silly, but one of the most important things to me is being able to look through my mirror to the window. I love to watch the birds flying around outside, and many of them land on the wires and the roofs of the houses.’

One of her favourite memories from the last few years, was when her son, Tim, took her for a day out and they went to a field filled with sheep and lambs. ‘I love to sit and watch them, it’s so lovely to see.’ When asked if these moments are so special to her because of her childhood and growing up on farms she nods and smiles, ‘Oh, definitely.’

Jillian likes to spend time watching wildlife programmes on the television in her room, as well as keeping up with politics and the news of the wider world.

Tim recently got Jillian an iPad on a stand beside her bed and is going to download books onto it, so she is able to read again more easily, by turning the pages with a simple tap of the screen.

Of the people around her each day, she speaks warmly. ‘The carers are so kind, and the girls are very sweet. The boys are cheeky and teasing, which is good for me.’

Through Jillian’s reflections, what stands out most is the importance of connection; to family, to cherished memories, to nature, to books, and to keeping in contact with her friends and loved ones. Now, more than ever, it is the simple things that continue to bring comfort and meaning to her life.

Although there are moments of frustration in no longer having the same physical freedom she once did, there is also a sense of peace in the space around her. Surrounded by familiar belongings, photographs, flowers, and the view from her window, Jillian has created a sanctuary that still reflects the life she has lived and the person she continues to be.

‘This is my little home,’ she says. ‘I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else if I am in bed and unable to move.’

Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing and residential care by the North Devon coast. To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

School Children Visit North Devon Care Home for VE Day

To mark the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), students from Ilfracombe Junior School visited Edenmore Nursing Home to share their World War II projects with family members (residents) living at the home.

The children spent time with different family members, showing them the workbooks they had created as part of their World War II projects, and offering them to family members who wanted to have a closer look through them themselves. The work included historical photographs from the wartime period alongside written sections exploring different aspects of the war.

There were some very special moments throughout the visit. Ann, a family member, was left laughing and smiling when one student shared that the best part about dressing up as an evacuee was not having to wear a school uniform!

Another child proudly told his teacher, ‘I think I’ve made that lady’s day,’ after spending time with Susan, another family member at the home. As the children were leaving, he made sure to say goodbye to Susan and give her a cuddle, something his teacher described as an especially touching moment, as showing affection and interacting so openly with others does not always come easily for him. 

The home also hosted a special VE Day themed party later in the afternoon, with Union Jack decorations, themed cakes, hats and tableware, while members of the team dressed in utility-style clothing and kerchiefs for the occasion. A reminiscence area was created using wartime books, a rotary phone and a typewriter, giving family members the opportunity to look at, touch and interact with recognisable objects from the past which may evoke a sense of connection or recognition.

Isaac, who is ten years old and the grandson of Home Manager Gayle, also spent time at the home speaking with family members about their experiences of the war. Peter, a family member at the home, enjoyed talking to Isaac about rationing during the war, including sugar, meat, butter and clothing, helping him understand what life was like then.

Isaac has been visiting the home since he was just a few months old and continues to enjoy spending time with family members there!

Intergenerational visits like these can be meaningful for both older and younger generations. For older generations, spending time with children can encourage moments of conversation and connection. Talking about things like wartime memories, may help support reminiscence and reinforce a sense of identity and personal history.

For children, visits to care homes can help build understanding of ageing and living with Dementia in a more personal and compassionate way. And rather than learning about history only through books, they are able to hear from people who lived through significant moments in time, helping bring those experiences to life while also encouraging empathy and confidence connecting with older generations.

Bringing children into the home can also help family members feel part of the wider community and younger generations, while creating opportunities for shared experiences, conversation and connection.

Home Manager Gayle shared about the day, ‘It was just amazing. Seeing everyone’s happy faces. Everybody just loved it.’

Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing and residential care by the North Devon coast. 

To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

Ilfracombe Ukulele Pluckers bring Musical Afternoon to North Devon Care Home

Recently at Edenmore Nursing Home in North Devon, the afternoon was filled with the sound of music as the home was visited by the Ilfracombe Ukulele Pluckers.

Family members (residents) who wanted to listen to the performance gathered in one of the home’s lounges. There was a great turnout, with a number of family members who often prefer to keep to themselves, or stay in the comfort of their own spaces, choosing to join in.

The Ukulele Pluckers played songs from different eras and even repeated some favourites. There was lots of singing along from the team and family members. Harry, Diana and Susan got up to dance in front of the performers, with Susan up and dancing for an hour and encouraging rounds of applause at the end of songs!

Susan also stood by another family member, who preferred to sit, during a number of songs, and helped her to join in by taking her hand and swaying with the music. She also got the chance to try out playing one of the ukuleles at the end of the performance. Peter, another family member, also stood up to be closer to the Ukulele Pluckers, singing alongside them for a while as though he was part of the band himself.

It was a really special afternoon that brought everyone together to enjoy tunes from decades past and get a few feet tapping and dancing.

Music can be very powerful for people who are living with a Dementia or are on a cognitive journey. Rhythm and melody activate parts of the brain linked to emotion, movement and long-term memory, so although someone might struggle to recall a recent conversation, they can sometimes still remember the words or beat to a song from years ago.

The Ilfracombe Ukulele Pluckers shared about their visit, ‘Our afternoon at Edenmore was heart-warmingly memorable. We carefully chose songs that we hoped the residents would enjoy. Luckily, we picked some favourites, as we had residents tapping their feet, dancing and singing along. We just hope we brought as much joy to you all, as you gave to us. Thanks for the warm welcome, yummy cakes and laughter, we hope to see you again soon!’

Edenmore is also currently undergoing a number of refurbishments, with a newly completed lounge and dining room with kitchenette recently opening on the home’s first street (floor). It is the first of several projects taking place throughout the home, helping to give the environment a fresh new feel for the people who live, visit and work there. Refurbishments on a second lounge have also now begun, with the home looking forward to holding future events and performances within these new spaces.

Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing and residential care by the North Devon coast. To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

North Devon Nursing Home Dresses Up for World Book Day

Edenmore Nursing Home in North Devon recently marked World Book Day by dressing up as well-known characters from books and sharing Harry Potter-themed cakes.

Team members wore costumes inspired by Where’s Wally, Little Red Riding Hood and Alice in Wonderland, and there was also a special visit from ‘Dino’ the dinosaur, a purple inflatable dinosaur worn by one of the team!

Those in costume visited all family members (residents) throughout the home, making sure that those who prefer to stay in bed, or are unable to move from bed, were included in the fun. Home Manager Gayle’s grandson, Flynn – whose mum Stacey is also a part of the team – joined in by dressing up and spending time saying hello to everyone. Some family members also chose to take part in dressing up by wearing themed hats.

A table in one of the lounges was set out with a selection of books, including classics such as The Lion King, Peter Pan and Harry Potter. For those living with a Dementia, books from earlier years can sometimes evoke familiar and comforting feelings around reading these books themselves or reading to their children.

Many family members at the home enjoy reading and appreciate simple moments such as a cup of tea and a good book while relaxing in their armchairs by a window in the lounge or conservatory, where they can catch views of the sea.

There were also Harry Potter-themed cakes made especially by the home’s kitchen team which everyone enjoyed.

Home Manager Gayle shared: ‘Everyone loved dressing up as characters, and Dino the dinosaur was a big hit. It was an afternoon of a lot of chatting and laughter!’

Dino the Dinosaur visiting family members

Family Members & Team Members in Lounge & Harry Potter Themed Treats

Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing and residential care. To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

Supporting Peter – A Valued Member of Ilfracombe Nursing Home’s Community

Long-term family member (resident) Peter is a deeply valued part of life at Edenmore Nursing Home. Known for his sharp wit and dry sense of humour, he is quick to share a laugh or smile, bringing warmth and character to the care home. At Edenmore, Peter’s care journey is centred on helping him continue to feel like himself, with a strong focus on maintaining his identity and staying connected to the things that matter most to him.

Peter’s Journey

Before settling in Ilfracombe, Peter lived a full and adventurous life. After a short stint in the army, he trained as a civil engineer, a career that took him across the world. He worked in Nigeria, where his daughters Sarah and Louise spent their childhood, and also in Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China, Mongolia and Kathmandu!

Throughout those years, Peter was known as a fun, generous father and very much the life and soul of the party. His late wife Ann, who he called Annapeg, was one of five children. Her large family meant lively and loud get-togethers, filled with conversation and Peter’s unmistakable, booming laughter.

Later in life, Peter and Ann chose to settle in North Devon, close to her birthplace of Braunton and the coast they both loved.

Around eight years ago, Peter was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. While he continued to live with support for some time, the grief of losing Ann in January 2023, who had been his primary carer, had a deep effect on him. Following a short stay in supported living, it became clear that full-time support would be a better fit for Peter.

Since moving to Edenmore, he has become a valued part of the home’s community. For a time, he took immense pride in his role as an honorary member of the maintenance team! When a position was advertised, Peter was keen to be interviewed and gave a fantastic interview. He regularly helped with small but meaningful tasks, such as sorting paperwork, supporting basic maintenance jobs and taking part in painting projects, including helping to paint a wall in Lundy House, one of the home’s households.

Peter also enjoyed accompanying team members on errands, such as pharmacy visits or supply runs. On one occasion, he joined a team member on a trip to Bristol to collect supplies in the work vehicle and was notably helpful throughout the day. Today, he continues to offer to help in the office with paperwork and administrative tasks!

Known for his famous cheekiness, Peter is quick to make others smile. A familiar exchange with the team involves him asking a question, listening carefully to the answer, and then responding with a cheeky, ‘No one likes a smarty pants.’ On another occasion, he surprised everyone in the lounge by speaking in a Yorkshire accent and greeting people with, ‘Ay up me duck.’ When asked if he had ever been to Yorkshire, he happily admitted that he hadn’t.

Being in Devon has remained grounding for Peter, offering familiar surroundings and a strong sense of place and belonging. The team have found that visits to the seaside offer a calming effect for Peter. Whether walking along the promenade, sitting quietly by the water or watching the waves roll in, time by the sea brings him a sense of contentment and focus. Team members have seen that he returns more relaxed and settled following these outings.

Peter also particularly loves when the home has visitors. Just this Christmas, children from the local school came into the home to sing carols and hand out handmade cards. Peter gave each of them a wrapped gift and sweets and thanked them personally for coming. For Peter, children have always brought joy into his life. He is now the proud grandfather to seven grandchildren!

Home Manager Gayle shared: ‘Seeing Peter feel settled, valued and purposeful – whether he’s helping with tasks around the home or enjoying time by the sea – is incredibly rewarding. He’s a real character, and we’re very proud to have him as part of our Edenmore family.’ 

Edenmore Nursing Home provides 24-hour nursing and residential care in Ilfracombe, North Devon. 

To read more stories about the people living and working at Edenmore Nursing Home, please visit https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/latest-news/

Edenmore Nursing Home Celebrates Valentine’s with its Vintage Sweet Cart

Edenmore Nursing Home in North Devon marked Valentine’s Day with its much-loved vintage sweet shop cart. The traditional cart, a familiar feature within the home, was redressed for the occasion with red love hearts, striped paper bags, and jars filled with classic pick-and-mix favourites.

From jelly sweets to gums and chocolate treats, the selection was chosen with familiarity in mind, flavours and textures many of the family members (residents) would recognise from traditional sweet shops.

Throughout the day, family members were encouraged to visit the cart, fill their own paper bags and enjoy a little something sweet. The sweet cart created opportunities for movement, conversation and reminiscing about childhood trips to the sweet shop, which could evoke positive feelings or emotions.

In the afternoon, music filled the lounge with well-known tunes from the past. For those who wanted to, there was dancing together and holding hands, either up on their feet or from the comfort of their chairs.

Home Manager Gayle shared: ‘It’s lovely to see everyone choosing their favourites and chatting about the sweets they used to enjoy. A few even asked if they needed to pay, which made us smile – it felt just like a proper old sweet shop. Valentine’s Day for us isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about creating moments of comfort, familiarity and connection.’

Family members also enjoyed Valentine’s cookies and cupcakes decorated with pink icing and sprinkles for their tea which was prepared by the kitchen team!

Edenmore offers 24-hour nursing and residential care. To learn more about life at Edenmore, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

 

North Devon Nursing Home Throws Birthday Dance Party

Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe, North Devon, recently held a birthday celebration for one of its newest family members (the home’s fond term for residents), bringing people together for an afternoon filled with nostalgic music, dancing, and homemade cake.

Helen, described by her daughter as ‘a really fun lady with a wonderful sense of humour’, has been living at the North Devon Nursing home since December 2025, having moved into the home following a hospital stay for a period of respite. To mark her 73^rd birthday, the team arranged a celebration in the lounge. Helen wore a sparkly birthday badge, and everyone sang Happy Birthday as the team presented her with a homemade cake!

Music from across the decades set the tone for the afternoon. Songs such as Country Roads and Let’s Twist Again prompted smiles, singing and movement, with some family members choosing to dance together in the lounge while others joined in from their chairs, clapping or singing along.

The celebration reflected Edenmore’s approach to everyday life in the home, where people are supported to choose to take part in the ways which feel right for them, whether that’s being at the centre of the action or enjoying the atmosphere from a quieter area of the room.

Helen, who has a real fondness for singing, shared about the day, ‘It was one of the best days I have had in a long time!’

Home Manager Gayle shared, ‘For us, it doesn’t matter if you’re living in our home for a few weeks as you get back on your feet or moving in longer-term. For the time you are with us, we want you to feel at home, and we will make a fuss about special occasions like birthdays because that’s what makes each person feel loved and cared for.’

 

Edenmore Nursing Home offers 24-hour nursing care in Ilfracombe, North Devon, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com for more information. 

Ilfracombe’s Only Nursing Home Maintains Their ‘Good’ Rating in Latest CQC Report

Edenmore Nursing Home in North Devon, providing 24-hour nursing care, is thrilled to maintain their ‘Good’ rating in all five key areas following its latest inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The CQC found that Edenmore continues to provide care that is safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led, with inspectors noting that the team worked together well to provide safe care that met people’s individual needs and that relatives describe the care home’s team as ‘exemplary’ in the way they support their family members.

One of the inspection’s key findings was that Edenmore carefully assessed people’s individual health needs before they moved into the home. The home ensured that each person’s care, support and treatment could meet their needs and preferences, while also maximising independence and personal choice wherever possible.

Inspectors also found that the team members at Edenmore receive a thorough induction and ongoing training delivered both within the home and through the home’s care academy, Evolve Care Academy, based in Bristol.

One relative shared, ‘Staff are amazingly kind. Much more than I expected. They treat him so well. I see how they work with him and other residents. So much patience. He feels safe there.’

While there are residential homes in the town, Edenmore is the only home able to provide 24/7 registered nursing support.

Home Manager, Gayle Cooper, shared: ‘Receiving the news that we had kept our ‘Good’ rating was such a moment of pride and delight, reflecting the hard work and commitment from all the team. The team were very happy to hear the news, they all felt really respected, appreciated and valued.’

To see Edenmore Nursing Home’s full report, this can be found on the CQC website.

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For more information about Edenmore Nursing Home, visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

A Birthday to Remember: John’s Lifelong Dream Comes True at Ilfracombe Harbour

Recently, one of the residents (fondly known as family members) at Edenmore Nursing Home, John Baker, celebrated his birthday with an outing to Ilfracombe Harbour. Joined by a close friend and fellow family member, Pamela Baines, John spent the day soaking up the sights of the Quay, admiring the iconic Verity statue, and – most excitingly – fulfilling a lifelong dream: seeing a full-sized lifeboat up close.

A boat enthusiast, John was thrilled to visit the impressive vessel at the RNLI Ilfracombe Lifeboat Station. The lifeboat crew gave him an informative tour, explaining the many ropes and knots required in their work, and even letting him try on one of their safety helmets.

To mark the occasion, the crew presented John and Pamela with a commemorative plaque - a thoughtful gesture that touched John deeply. Afterwards, the pair spent a relaxed afternoon watching the boats come and go from the harbour, enjoying ice creams in the seaside air.

Back at Edenmore, John couldn’t wait to share his adventure with team members and fellow family members, encouraging everyone to visit the harbour themselves and telling them, ‘I’ll never forget that day’. Gayle Cooper, home manager, shared, ‘he hasn’t stopped talking about the day since.’ The lifeboat crew has now been invited to Edenmore Nursing Home to give a talk on lifesaving at sea.

Edenmore Nursing Home is a Devon Nursing Home located close to Ilfracombe town centre in North Devon, with costal views. The home supports individuals who require Nursing and Dementia Care. 

To find out more about the home, please visit https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/

Watermouth Castle Unleashes Descend Into Darkness

 A Bigger, Darker and More Twisted Experience Than Ever Before.

This Halloween, North Devon’s Watermouth Castle invites fear-seekers and horror fans to Descend into Darkness - an immersive and utterly bone-chilling scare event running on selected nights from 17^th October to 1^st November 2025. Prepare for a night of terrifying thrills and teeth-chattering chills...

With five immersive zones filled with live actors, shocking special effects and pitch-black terror, guests will navigate a nightmare world of gore, suspense and hair-raising encounters. This year, the experience is bigger, darker and more twisted than ever before.

Two New Scare Zones for 2025

Two brand-new scare zones join the line-up this year - Bad Barnyard and The Z Factor.         

• Bad Barnyard - Nightmare-inducing farmyard creatures lurk in the shadows, step carefully as every creak, squeak and squeal is a nightmare waiting to consume you.

• The Z-Factor - An outbreak has brought the undead back to life and they’re hungry for more than just your brains. Can you make it to the other side?

These brand-new horrors join three returning fan favourites:

• Cursed Forest – Deep in the shadowed woods, ancient fears awaken. Tread carefully through the Cursed Forest where whispers echo through the trees as unseen horrors close in around you.

• The Haunted Castle – Foolish mortals, step into a twisted nightmare that only the bravest of souls will escape.

• Carnival of Clowns – Roll up, roll up - a feral fairground freak show of twisted laughter and manic menace has made its blood-curdling return.

When the sun goes down and darkness cloaks the castle, Watermouth Castle transforms into a playground of horror. This event is not for the faint-hearted: children under 12 are not permitted, and those aged 12–16 must be accompanied by an adult. Expect jump scares, gore, total darkness and intense live performances designed to push you to your limits.

Enter if you dare... With trembling terrors lurking around every corner, only the bravest can make it through Watermouth Castle’s blood-chilling scare event, Descend Into Darkness. Whether you’re a spooky season regular or a Halloween newcomer, Watermouth Castle will leave you with haunting memories and spine-tingling tales for years to come.

Don’t miss out on Devon’s ultimate Halloween event. Rally your crew, summon your courage and embrace the darkness at Watermouth Castle’s Descend Into Darkness.

Too Scared for Descend Into Darkness? Try Our Daytime Spooktacular Family Fun

Families can still get into the Halloween spirit at Watermouth Castle this Halloween with their daytime spooky family fun event, running daily from 25^th October to 2^nd November 2025, 10:00am to 4:00pm. Packed with fang-tastic fun for all ages, follow a spooky Halloween Trail, hunt for mischievous gnomes and collect magical crystals in the gardens. With all activities included in admission, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a spell of spooky fun without the blood-curdling screams.

Extend Your Visit with a Short Break

Escape the playground of horror and extend your stay in Watermouth Castle’s on-site accommodation. Book a spooky short break and spend the night inside the castle itself.

Watermouth Castle is open until 1^st November 2025. Tickets start from £30pp when booked in advance online. For more information and to book, visit: www.watermouthcastle.com/events/descend-into-

 Watermouth Castle Unleashes Descend Into Darkness - Its Most Terrifying Halloween Yet Featuring Brand-New Frights

 

About Watermouth Castle.

Storybook Magic: Winnie the Pooh Lunch Delights Edenmore Residents

What began as a simple Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for World Book Lovers Day in 2024 has led to the creation of The Edenmore Book Club, led by Home Admin Sarah Dullaghan, offering moments of connection and comfort for residents, fondly referred to as family members.

Each book club meeting involves Sarah reading a chapter of a book aloud, surrounded by themed decorations and food throughout the home that the whole team get involved with! In the past, family members have enjoyed timeless classics such as Peter Rabbit, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Paddington, with the latest example being Winnie the Pooh for World Book Day.

A Community Effort

This year’s Winnie the Pooh afternoon was made even more special with generous donations from the Ilfracombe community, with Winnie the Pooh soft toys being gifted to the home. Family members were encouraged to sit back, close their eyes, and enjoy the storytelling over a glass of nosecco (alcohol-free sparkling wine), creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Shared Memories

Many family members shared how the event brought back ‘happy memories’ of reading Winnie the Pooh to their own children and grandchildren. Sarah reflected on the impact of these gatherings, saying, ‘Their smiles and reactions brought the story to life for me!’’

More Than Just a Book Club

The Edenmore Book Club is about more than just reading, it’s a space for sharing stories, reminiscing, and creating meaningful moments together. Held in the main lounge, it remains easily accessible to all, where family members can choose to be involved in the activities, reinforcing the home’s commitment to recognising the values, beliefs, and identity of each person who calls Edenmore Nursing Home their home.

 

 For more about life at Edenmore Nursing Home, 

visit: www.edenmorenursinghome.com

Ilfracombe Soapbox Derby – Edenmore Wheels to Glory

Edenmore Nursing Home is no stranger to getting involved in an array of activities for their residents (fondly referred to as family members) to choose to be involved in, however not normally ones that involve four wheels and rolling through Ilfracombe! I am of course, talking about the recent Soapbox Derby, put on by Ilfracombe Round Table to support their own charity, as well as Children’s Hospice South West.

From the moment the idea was announced to take part (and sponsor the event too!), the nursing home was keen to include as many people as possible. The team, family members and their relatives got together to plan Edenmore’s soapbox kart. In true community style, everyone pitched in – from the hands-on builders of the kart with drills and saws (thanks Gayle Cooper, Home Manager’s husband and grandson!) to family members offering design ideas, colour schemes, and even a few cheeky suggestions for how to make it go faster! The result was a colourful, Edenmore shaped kart that looked right at home among the other imaginative entries.

Race day saw team members making the short walk down to the town and joining the buzzing streets of Ilfracombe. Families lined the route, the sun was shining, music was playing, and the atmosphere was one of pure community spirit. Edenmore was the first kart to attempt the course involving sharp corners, ramps and lots of hay bales (which Captain Jesu made friends with on the test run!).

Team member Jesu shared ‘manuvering down the course was quite challenging! The steering was all over the place as the kart was not designed to have a house built on it – but I had so much fun and the turnout was absolutely amazing – bring on next year!’

‘It was just brilliant to be part of the first-ever derby,’ shared Gayle. ‘The atmosphere was electric, and the community spirit made all the hard work worth it. We’ve already started talking about ideas for next year!’

As the day came to a close, it was clear the Soapbox Derby had sparked something special in the community. Edenmore was proud to help launch what is sure to become a new Ilfracombe tradition.

For more information about Edenmore Nursing Home, please visit: www.edenmorenursinghome.com