St. Raphael’s is thoughtfully and beautifully constructed of fine local sandstone and presents an order range of gables and mullions, with a charming little oriel at first floor level. The home has extensive grounds and gardens which are accessible to residents and looks out over the Sussex countryside. Many improvements have been carried out to facilitate the nursing care for the mentally ill and elderly. The personal character of St. Raphael’s is preserved by the Sisters, who care for their residents and provide a homely atmosphere carrying on the vision of their Founder, Canon Peter Maes.
The home is run by Sisters who oversee the care homes taking an active part in the day to day running and pastoral care of the residents.
The home is built over three floors which between them have 28 single bedrooms and 15 2-bedded rooms all of which meet the current minimum standards. Every effort is made to allow privacy to the residents that share rooms and they are given the opportunity to receive visitors in private. The home as specialised baths and showering facilities.
There are extensive communal areas available to the residents, including a dining room which overlooks the garden, lounges and visitors’ room.
St. Augustine’s is a homely unit in St. Raphael’s and provides accommodation for 13 residents whose prime need is mental health but who maintain much of their independence to make their own choices. They have their own sitting room and kitchenette. Their education needs are met with regularly courses and they go on weekly shopping trips, and also go to the theatre and bowling. They mix with the other residents and are an integral party of the homely atmosphere and all the residents at St. Raphael’s benefit from the special interaction of this group.
Our chefs provide an excellent and varied menu to meet the nutritional needs of our residents and are pleased to cater for individual dietary requirements. Seasonal local produce is used to ensure residents are offered tasty options throughout the year.
There is a large Activities room where residents are able to continue to follow their own hobbies or take part in various planned events. Care assistants are also encouraged to be involved with the activities for the residents.
Musical entertainment is particularly enjoyed and this is provided by outside entertainers. Reminiscence therapy in small groups is a regular event. Residents who are unable to mobilise are offered passive exercised on a one-to-one basis.
The residents are able to go on shopping trips and enjoy walks in the gardens and visits from relatives and friends. Celebrations are organised for birthdays and anniversaries.
St. Raphael’s has its own Hairdressing salon where residents can make an appointment with the qualified hairdresser who makes regular visits.
The home has its own small Chapel which is available for residents and visitors.
The Home welcomes visitors and residents have an opportunity to meet with them in private or with the group. Residents have the chance to enjoy refreshments with their families and arrangements are made for special occasions, eg. birthdays. Residents are encouraged to go out for visits and trips with their relatives and friends.
The Home is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for care with nursing for 58 residents of both sexes. It provides nursing care for elderly people suffering from dementia type conditions and confusion. For further information on admissions criteria please call 01825 790 485.
The Registered Manager of St. Raphael’s is Sr. Mary Basil.
She has many years’ experience caring for the elderly especially those with dementia and similar type illnesses.
Qualifications and experience of Registered Manager
If you or any member of your family wish to visit St. Raphael’s to view the facilities, service and care on offer then please call 01825 790 485 and we would be delighted to book you an appointment.