Following rheumatoid arthritis, a fall and various other consequences, my mum died recently having spent several months at Walnuttree and well over a year at Catchpole Court. Both contributed to make her final years both dignified and purposeful.

Walnuttree is living proof that complete care for the whole person can be provided, whatever the building is like. The staff on the ward were so efficient, dedicated and caring, and the chance to have a local hospital ward for local people who can receive regular visitors from the area, who don’t have to spend loads on parking and who can make many short regular visits easily, must be beneficial to the patient. Indeed it is crucial and conducive to their wellbeing and recovery.

Mum moved to Catchpole Court at the same time as a new manager. The whole management team and staff ensured that my mum was treated respectfully, as an individual (willing to get food in specially to tempt her, when she wasn’t hungry, even though mum liked their home-cooked food).

They were approachable, listened and really tried to do anything that would improve her care and wellbeing. All of the staff were absolutely brilliant and supportive in her final days.

I would like therefore to say a great big thank-you to all of the people who worked with my mum. It is not an easy job, with few rewards. They are really special people.

CHRIS MARSHALL

Sudbury