Care home re-opens after fire led to relocations

North East England’s Donwell House Nursing Home is a home for residents once again, after the damage caused by a fire meant clients had to be relocated to sister homes run by provider Shaftesbury Care Group.

Having broken out in an upstairs bedroom, the fire caused no harm to any individuals, but smoke damage to several rooms meant that redecoration was necessary if the home was to continue to perform its nursing and dementia care objectives.

Owners are delighted with the work that has since been completed, which includes painted walls and new carpets, as well as the installation of new lighting, curtains and furniture.

Manager Tracey Garland comments: “We are thrilled that the home is now fully back up and running and its fresh new look will provide a safe and comfortable environment for residents to receive quality care.

“The safety of our residents is always our priority and I would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff at Donwell House who responded magnificently after the fire, including off-duty employees who came in to help out.

“The hospitality of our local sister homes where some residents were temporarily moved was fantastic and provided a smooth transition for residents. I’d also like to say a big thank you to the fire crews who attended the scene, we are extremely grateful for how quickly and efficiently they dealt with the situation.”

Donwell House is currently registered for 62 residents, while the home will also be restarting a vital day care service it offers to members of the local community.