Guides to Care

A Sense of Belonging: Building Community and Connection at Shipston Lodge

Feeling part of a community is one of life’s greatest sources of happiness. At Shipston Lodge, belonging sits at the heart of everything we do. Our home isn’t just a place to live — it’s a place to connect, share, and flourish.

A Home Built on Connection

Every resident brings their own story, talents, and experiences, creating a community rich in character and friendship. Whether it’s joining a music afternoon, tending to the garden, or enjoying a shared meal, there’s always an opportunity to connect.

Our team understands that companionship is as important to wellbeing as care itself. We take time to get to know each person — their interests, their history, and what makes them smile. This helps us create experiences that truly resonate and relationships that feel genuine.

Life Enriched by Community

Social connection has been shown to improve mental health, reduce feelings of isolation, and even enhance physical health. That’s why community life is central to Shipston Lodge. We encourage group activities, visits from local schools, and intergenerational events that spark joy and purpose.

From family celebrations to community partnerships, Shipston Lodge is deeply woven into the fabric of Shipston-on-Stour. Residents feel part of something larger — a vibrant, caring network where they are both valued and included.

Friendship and Purpose Every Day

For residents, belonging also means having meaningful roles — helping with small tasks, mentoring staff, or welcoming new neighbours. These experiences reinforce identity and self-worth, turning our home into a place where everyone contributes.

A Community that Cares

True belonging grows through kindness, respect, and shared moments. At Shipston Lodge, we see this every day — in laughter over lunch, in the warmth of a chat in the lounge, or in the quiet companionship of a friend’s visit.

Here, connection isn’t just encouraged; it’s celebrated. Because when people feel they belong, life becomes not only comfortable, but truly fulfilling.

Mindful Living in Later Life: Supporting Emotional Balance and Inner Calm

As we age, life often slows down — but our minds can remain busy with memories, emotions, and the everyday challenges of change. At Shipston Lodge, we believe that wellbeing means more than physical health; it’s also about finding balance, calm, and peace within ourselves.

Mindfulness — the simple practice of being present — has become a meaningful part of life for many of our residents. Through gentle yoga, guided breathing, creative expression, and quiet reflection, we encourage moments of stillness and connection that nurture emotional and mental wellbeing.

A Calmer Way to Live

Mindful living doesn’t require silence or solitude. It can be as simple as sharing a cup of tea in the garden, noticing the sound of birdsong, or taking part in a group relaxation class. These small, conscious moments help residents to feel grounded and content, even on more difficult days.

Our team incorporates mindfulness into daily routines with sensitivity and warmth. Activities such as seated yoga, aromatherapy, and art sessions allow residents to relax while gently engaging body and mind. The result is a home atmosphere that feels peaceful yet full of life.

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing

Later life can bring change — new surroundings, health challenges, or the loss of loved ones. Mindfulness offers a way to navigate these experiences with gentleness and understanding. It promotes focus, reduces anxiety, and fosters resilience.

Residents often share how much they value these calm moments of connection. The benefits go beyond relaxation — improved sleep, lower stress, and even enhanced social confidence.

The Mindful Environment at Shipston Lodge

Our surroundings play an important role too. Natural light, comfortable spaces, soothing colours and the beauty of the outdoors all support a sense of inner calm. Staff are trained to promote mindful communication — taking time, listening attentively, and creating an atmosphere of respect and presence.

At Shipston Lodge, mindfulness isn’t a class or a course; it’s a way of living well, together.

The Art of Rest: How Respite Care Brings Renewal for Residents and Families

Caring for a loved one is one of life’s most meaningful commitments, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Everyone needs time to rest, recharge, and restore balance. That’s where respite care at Shipston Lodge offers invaluable support — not just for families, but for those they love most.

Respite care provides short-term stays for individuals who may need additional support following an illness, hospital stay, or while their regular carer takes a much-needed break. These temporary visits are about more than care — they are about comfort, reassurance, and renewal.

At Shipston Lodge, we understand that stepping into a new environment, even for a short time, can feel daunting. That’s why we focus on creating a welcoming experience that feels like home from the very first moment.

A Home Away from Home

Each respite guest is welcomed as part of our community. They receive the same level of attention, compassion and personalised care as our long-term residents. Whether it’s enjoying a home-cooked meal, joining in an afternoon activity, or simply relaxing in the garden, our goal is to make every stay warm, comfortable and restorative.

Many families find that respite care also helps their loved one build confidence and independence. It’s an opportunity to socialise, meet new friends, and engage in new experiences — all within a safe and nurturing environment.

Peace of Mind for Families

For family carers, knowing their loved one is receiving expert care and attention allows them to rest without worry. Whether for a weekend, a few weeks or longer, families can recharge knowing that Shipston Lodge offers 24-hour nursing, experienced staff, and a genuine sense of compassion.

Respite stays are also a wonderful way to “try before you decide.” For some, a short stay becomes the beginning of a longer-term relationship with Shipston Lodge, where familiarity and trust grow naturally.

Care That Heals and Renews

Our holistic approach ensures that every guest’s emotional and physical needs are supported. Alongside professional nursing and personal care, we integrate wellbeing activities, physiotherapy support, and nutritious dining tailored to individual preferences.

Respite care at Shipston Lodge is not simply a pause — it’s an act of renewal. Whether recovering from illness or taking time to rest, residents and families alike benefit from the peace, friendship, and gentle rhythm of life within our home.

A Helping Hand When It’s Needed Most

Life’s challenges can arise unexpectedly, and having the right support at the right time can make all the difference. At Shipston Lodge, respite care provides exactly that — a helping hand, a safe haven, and a chance for everyone to breathe a little easier.

Proud to Be Finalists: Taylor & Taylor Care Shortlisted at the National Care Awards 2025

At Taylor & Taylor Care, we believe in creating homes filled with compassion, dignity, and joy. That’s why we’re beyond proud to announce that our organisation has been named a finalist in the 2025 National Care Awards under the ‘Care Home Group (Small)’ category.

This prestigious nomination isn’t just a recognition of our care—it’s a celebration of the people who make Taylor & Taylor Care what it is: our residents, their families, and our dedicated team across every department.

Recognising the Heart of Care

Now in its 27th year, the National Care Awards is the longest-running and most respected awards programme in the UK care sector. Organised by Caring Times, the awards highlight excellence across residential, specialist, and domiciliary care. Being shortlisted places us among the UK’s leading providers and shines a light on the hard work, compassion, and commitment shown daily by our incredible teams.

From our caregivers and nurses, to our housekeepers, chefs, activities team, managers, and support staff—this nomination is yours. You create the calm, warmth, and excellence that families trust. Your smiles, standards, and small gestures make all the difference.

A Message from Our Leadership

Warren Canicon, our Chief Operating Officer, shared:

“As COO, I’m incredibly proud of our colleagues across Taylor & Taylor Care. Being a National Care Awards finalist recognises the daily discipline behind compassionate care: consistent standards, safe systems, warm hospitality, and the small human moments that matter most.
Our IMPACT values guide us—Inspire Together, Make a Difference, Positively Appreciate, Apply Trust, Care Graciously, and Transparent Leadership. This nomination belongs to our carers, nurses, housekeepers, chefs, activities teams, administrators, and managers who bring those values to life.
Thank you to our residents and families for your trust and feedback—it keeps us improving. We’ll celebrate this milestone and keep raising the bar for all-inclusive care, one good shift at a time.”

Our co-founder and family owner, Charles Taylor, added:

“This is a deeply personal moment for our family. We began Taylor & Taylor Care with a simple promise: treat every resident as we would our own loved ones. To be named a finalist at the National Care Awards is an honour, but the real privilege is serving our residents and families each day.
I want to thank our remarkable team for their kindness, professionalism, and integrity. You carry our family name with dignity, and you make our homes places of safety, friendship, and joy.
To our residents and families—thank you for trusting us. We will keep listening, keep improving, and keep caring graciously. This recognition is yours as much as ours.”

Shipston Lodge: A Community That Cares

At Shipston Lodge, this news has been met with huge pride and joy. Residents and staff alike have been thrilled to share in this achievement together—whether through our regular activities, our thriving community connections, or simply over a lovely cuppa and chat.

This nomination reflects more than just policies and procedures—it reflects people. It reflects what happens when a care home becomes a home. Where laughter is daily, where kindness is consistent, and where every team member contributes something meaningful.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

The award ceremony will take place on 7th November 2025 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, where we’ll join other outstanding providers to celebrate all that’s good in the world of care. Win or not, we’ll be going as proud finalists—and more importantly, as a united team with a shared purpose.

While recognition is always wonderful, our mission remains the same: to deliver safe, gracious, all-inclusive care that empowers residents to enjoy every day fully—because at Taylor & Taylor Care, life is for living.

To our teams, thank you. To our families, thank you. To our residents, thank you. This is for all of you.

📍 Stay Connected

We’ll be sharing updates as the big day approaches, so keep an eye on our social media and website for more behind-the-scenes news.

Using Aromatherapy and Natural Remedies in Care Settings

Incorporating natural remedies into care home life offers a gentle yet powerful way to support residents’ wellbeing. From soothing lavender to stimulating citrus, aromatherapy and other holistic tools can enhance emotional balance, reduce agitation, and improve sleep—especially for those living with dementia.

The Science Behind Aromatherapy Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to trigger physical and emotional responses. When inhaled, scents are processed through the olfactory system, which is closely connected to the brain’s emotional and memory centres. This makes scent-based therapy especially helpful in dementia care.

Popular Essential Oils and Their Benefits

1. Lavender – Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and aids sleep.
2. Peppermint – Stimulates alertness and may ease headaches.
3. Lemon and Orange – Uplift mood and reduce emotional fatigue.
4. Rosemary – May support memory and cognitive function.
5. Chamomile – Soothes nerves and encourages restful sleep.

Practical Uses in Care Homes

• Diffusers: Gently disperse calming oils in communal spaces.
• Aromatherapy Massage: Combines therapeutic touch with scent for deeper relaxation.
• Scented Cloths and Pillows: Personalised scent items help soothe anxiety.
• Bathing Rituals: Add oils like eucalyptus or lavender for calming sensory experiences.

Beyond Aromatherapy: Other Natural Approaches

• Herbal Teas: Chamomile, lemon balm, or mint teas can aid digestion and relaxation.
• Music and Nature Sounds: These can enhance mood and reduce agitation.
• Sunlight and Outdoor Time: Natural light supports circadian rhythms and boosts vitamin D.

Dementia-Specific Applications Residents with dementia may benefit from:

• Routine exposure to familiar, comforting scents.
• Scent-triggered memory activities (e.g., “smell and remember” games).
• Avoidance of overpowering or unfamiliar smells that may confuse or agitate.

Safety Considerations

• Always dilute essential oils properly.
• Avoid direct skin contact unless approved by a healthcare provider.
• Monitor for allergies or sensitivities.
• Choose high-quality, natural products with no synthetic additives.

Staff Training and Resident Choice Care staff are trained in safe use of oils and recognising resident preferences. Residents should always be involved in choosing scents, ensuring a personalised and respectful approach.

Conclusion Natural remedies like aromatherapy offer a low-risk, high-benefit addition to traditional care. At Shipston Lodge, we believe in the power of holistic support—where the right scent, sound, or sip of herbal tea can bring comfort, clarity, and calm.

Emergency Preparedness in Care Homes: Keeping Residents Safe

In a care home setting, safety is not just a policy—it’s a way of life. Residents, especially older adults, are more vulnerable to environmental changes, health incidents, and power-related disruptions. That’s why robust emergency preparedness is essential for ensuring their safety, wellbeing, and peace of mind.

Why Emergency Preparedness Matters Older adults are more susceptible to the effects of extreme weather, sudden illness, or disruptions to heating, lighting, and mobility aids. For many residents, quick response and clear communication during emergencies are not just reassuring—they can be life-saving.

Common Emergencies Care Homes Must Be Ready For

1. Power Outages: Loss of electricity can impact lighting, heating, medical devices, kitchen operations, and more.
2. Heatwaves: Older adults can suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, or cardiovascular strain during extreme temperatures.
3. Cold Snaps and Snowstorms: Icy conditions pose fall risks and may delay medical access or deliveries.
4. Medical Emergencies: Cardiac events, falls, or sudden illness require immediate and efficient response.
5. Infectious Outbreaks: Fast containment measures and infection control can prevent spread.

Preparedness Protocols at Shipston Lodge

• Power Backup Systems: We have emergency generators and UPS units to keep vital systems running during power cuts.
• Temperature Control Plans: Our team monitors weather warnings and adjusts cooling or heating systems accordingly, while ensuring residents stay hydrated and comfortable.
• Emergency Medical Training: All staff are trained in first aid, CPR, and how to escalate medical concerns swiftly.
• Clear Evacuation Procedures: Fire drills, accessible exit points, and mobile-friendly emergency kits are in place.
• Communication Plans: Family members are updated via phone or email, and all residents are kept informed with simple, reassuring language.

Team Coordination and Staff Training Our care team undergoes regular emergency response training, including:

• Annual scenario-based drills
• Recognising vulnerable individuals
• Coordination with local authorities and emergency services
• Documentation and checklists for high-risk scenarios

Resident-Centred Emergency Plans Each resident has a personalised care plan, which includes:

• Emergency contact details
• Medication lists and essential medical equipment
• Mobility and communication needs
• Specific vulnerabilities to temperature or stress

Family Reassurance and Involvement We believe families are key partners in safety. During critical events, families are notified early, and provided with ongoing updates. We also encourage families to keep emergency contact numbers current and participate in our safety education materials.

Conclusion Safety is about foresight, preparation, and calm execution. At Shipston Lodge, we prioritise emergency preparedness as a vital part of our care commitment. Families can rest easy knowing that their loved ones are protected by a team ready to respond with compassion, clarity, and control.

Sleep and Ageing: How to Promote Restful Nights in Later Life

As we age, the quality and patterns of our sleep naturally change. Older adults often find themselves waking frequently during the night or struggling to fall asleep. In care home environments, this can be especially challenging—but also an area where thoughtful support can make a significant difference.

Why Sleep Changes with Age
Biological changes, reduced melatonin production, increased frequency of medical conditions, and the side effects of certain medications can all impact sleep. Emotional factors such as anxiety or depression, often heightened during times of transition or illness, can also contribute to poor sleep.

The circadian rhythm, our internal body clock, tends to shift with age, often making older adults feel tired earlier in the evening and wake earlier in the morning. However, the quality of sleep may be lighter and more fragmented, resulting in less restorative rest.

Consequences of Poor Sleep in Older Adults
Sleep deprivation in the elderly can lead to irritability, cognitive decline, greater risk of falls, and a weakened immune system. Chronic sleep issues may also exacerbate other health problems, making rest an essential part of holistic elderly care.

Insufficient sleep is also linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even an increased risk of dementia. For residents in care homes, addressing sleep issues is a preventative health strategy as well as a comfort-enhancing measure.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment in Care Homes

1. Routine and Structure: Encourage a regular bedtime and wake-up schedule, as consistency helps regulate the circadian rhythm.
2. Lighting: Use natural light during the day to help maintain healthy sleep-wake cycles, and dim lighting in the evening to cue the body for rest.
3. Noise Reduction: Maintain quiet nighttime environments with minimal disruptions. Use soft flooring, close doors gently, and avoid overhead paging systems.
4. Comfortable Bedding: Ensure mattresses and pillows are suited to the individual’s needs. Weighted blankets can also promote calm for some individuals.
5. Temperature Control: Keep bedrooms comfortably cool and well-ventilated.

Daytime Habits to Support Night-Time Sleep

• Promote physical activity and fresh air during the day.
• Limit daytime napping to avoid nighttime wakefulness, ideally keeping naps under 30 minutes.
• Encourage engagement in meaningful activities to promote emotional wellbeing and mental stimulation.
• Avoid caffeine and heavy meals late in the day.

Nutrition and Hydration
Evening snacks such as bananas, almonds, or chamomile tea can help promote sleep. Ensure residents are well-hydrated but avoid large fluid intake right before bed to reduce nighttime bathroom visits.

When to Seek Medical Support
If sleep issues persist, involve a healthcare professional. Sleep disorders like sleep apnoea, restless leg syndrome, or periodic limb movement disorder may require specialised care. Medication reviews can also reveal drugs that disrupt sleep as a side effect.

Conclusion
Promoting better sleep in older adults isn’t just about comfort—it’s about quality of life. At Shipston Lodge, we understand the profound link between restful nights and overall wellbeing. With the right support and a tailored approach, we help ensure every resident enjoys peaceful, restorative sleep.