Frequently Asked Questions

We know that you and your family will have lots of questions when you are considering a residential care home, so we have put together a few answers to the questions we are often asked.

Your care is personal to you so please do not be frightened to ask us questions and we will do our very best to make sure we answer them.

Can I have a telephone in my room?

Yes, although you are responsible for the installation and the bill. One of our senior members of staff would be happy to support you with this if needed. 

If you would prefer not to arrange this, we do have hand held devices that can be bought to your bedroom for your use. 

Will I still be able to vote?

Absolutely and we encourage this. Postal vote can be arranged for those who wish.

In my own home I always had something to do, what will I do in The Evergreens Lodge?

The Evergreens Lodge is well known for a variety of entertainment and clubs suitable for all abilities. These are designed for one to one, small or large groups. Every month we offer a new and varied agenda which you can join in with or, if you prefer, sit and watch the world go by.

The activities offered are discussed at the monthly Residents Forum.

We also offer weekly trips out on our mini bus to places of your choosing. 

I am concerned about my finances, what if they run out, will I be asked to leave?

Prior to admission, we would strongly recommend that you take independent financial advice from a specialist organisation (we can provide you with several contacts). The planning of long term care funding is complex and we have found these organisations to be extremely helpful and resourceful.

What would happen if my health deteriorated whilst I was living at The Evergreens Lodge?

We will always try to meet your care needs with our team of care staff. We liaise constantly with the GP, the District Nursing team and other health care professionals to ensure we have access to the latest information on all aspects of care. Whilst we strive to enable residents to stay with us as long as possible, very occasionally, due to the specialist care requirements of some illnesses and disabilities, we may not be able to meet those care needs. In these circumstances, we would be guided by the expertise of the GP and relevant health care professionals as to the most appropriate actions.

By achieving Platinum Status in our Gold Standard Framework Accreditation we are able to manage End of Life care needs in a far more pro-active way, thus helping you remain at The Evergreens Lodge for as long as possible.

What are your terms & conditions?

Our fees include all personal care, accommodation, all meals, heating and light, personal laundry (except dry cleaning), all activities and entertainment. The resident is responsible for payment of newspapers, hairdresser, Chiropodist, toiletries, telephone bills.

  • Room prices are dependant on the size of the room, ensuite facilities and the care needs of the individual. Fees are paid four weekly, in advance, by standing order and may be reviewed following significant changes to care needs. Two weeks’ notice will be given under these circumstances. Please contact the home for an initial estimate based on your needs.
  • There is a review of fees each year and four weeks’ notice will be given of any changes.
  • We require documentary evidence of a resident’s financial situation along with a copy of both Health & Welfare and Financial powers of attorney for the file.
  • Four week’s notice will be required if a resident decides to move to another home or if The Evergreens Lodge is unable to meet the care needs of the resident.
  • We have no requirement to pay large fees in advance. Normal practice is to ask for one week’s fees to be used as a deposit for the room which would be deducted from the first payment.

This is just an overview of our terms and conditions. Please contact us for more in depth information.

Testimonials

Thank you so very much for all you did for Mum.  You took such great care of her and we are so grateful to you all.

E, L and C, Relatives

Testimonials

My husband has been in the Home in Sherborne for five months now. He took a few weeks to settle down in his new surroundings at first but now has got to know the Staff. The Nurses, Carers, the Chef, all have been so kind, respectful, most of all understanding the needs of not only the residents but their families. Only recently we enjoyed an outing to Weymouth organised by the Activities Co-ordinator. Matron Judith Maidment waved us off as our special coach left. Thank you all

PW, Wife

Testimonials

I wanted to thank you and all your staff for the care and kindness you showed my father during his final weeks and days with you.  I can honestly say that it felt that you had all become part of the family.

ED, Daughter

Testimonials

The kindness you all showed us as a family meant so much in such sad and stressful times.  Thank you

ED, Daughter

Testimonials

My family and friends will not forget the kindness, caring, love and support you gave to all of us from the minute T arrived.

PW, Relative

Testimonials

Words are never enough sometimes, but the hugs, smiles and laughs worked every time.  In other words 'you cared'.

PW, Relative

Testimonials

Thank you for arranging such a very enjoyable lunch for D on his 92nd birthday.

DH, Wife

Testimonials

Please thank all the staff, we will never forget you all for making P's last weeks so comfortable for him and bearable for us.  You are fortunate to have such a wonderful team of caring professionals.  We cannot thank you enough.

WS, Relative

Testimonials

My friend came into the home a few weeks before the 1st lockdown in March 2020.
To our great relief, she settled in amazingly quickly and as we were unable to visit, it was a great comfort to see the photos of her happily taking part in activities and looking as if she was thoroughly enjoying herself.

She, unfortunately, caught Covid in January 2021 but was nursed back to health with the greatest compassion and care and the nurses gave us daily reports with regard to her condition.

It is now wonderful to be able to visit again and we are always made to feel welcome whilst observing all the necessary regulations.

A huge thank you to all the fantastic team who go way beyond the call of duty.

LM, Friend

Testimonials

Mum moved into the home in very difficult circumstances at the start of the pandemic. We have always been so impressed by the care Mum has been given. Mum is poorly, but she has built a friendship with the staff, is very comfortable in her surroundings, is involved, and happy and while I wish she could be at home with my dad, in the circumstances I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather she was. Everyone has also been very kind to my dad in his daily calls to check how mum is doing.

CB, Son

Testimonials

My wife has been in the home for just over a year. She has been cared for in an exemplary manner, shown kindness, respect and indeed love. I am very satisfied with the whole experience. Well done.

JC, Husband

Testimonials

My husband has been looked after by this home in an excellent way. He has been difficult in the past but they have coped with him very well. The carers are very caring and think a lot of the residents. It is a homely atmosphere and I am so grateful my husband was placed here when I was unable to cope.

SM, Wife

Testimonials

This year I was able to see Mum on her birthday. She was given a cake and present. Last year I only spoke to her on the phone. She was very happy and I would like to thank all the staff.

SH, Daughter

Testimonials

I cant believe how happy my mum is here. It took a few weeks for her to settle but she is happy now. My mum always said "never ever put me in a home", when the time came I was weighed down with guilt. Now I am happy because Mum is happy. She is in a wonderful home clean, friendly and 24 hours care. I know if there is anything wrong with mum the home will contact me straight away. I tell everyone about this wonderful home.

LH, Daughter

Contact Us

The Evergreens Lodge
Westbury
Sherborne
Dorset, DT9 3QZ

01935 812046

manager@theevergreenslodge.co.uk