MEMBERS of a healthcare team have been celebrating the opening of a newly refurbished centre.

Willow Nursing Unit and the Aspen Memory Centre has been located at Horkesley Manor since Stow Healthcare aquired the site in October 2022.

Since then, the firm has invested significantly in the home, transforming the driveway and entrance to create more space for visitors.

Gazette: Smiles - Stow HealthcareSmiles - Stow Healthcare (Image: Stow Healthcare)

Bedrooms, bathrooms and communal spaces at the complex have also been refurbished.

Perhaps the most extensive renovation carried out is the introduction of the new nursing unit and memory centre which has expanded the home’s care provision.

The nursing unit transforms a 23 bed wing at the home into a new nursing facility.


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The unit was officially opened on June 27 with staff, residents, families and industry professionals gathering to celebrate the transformation.

Professor Deborah Sturdy, chief nurse for adult social care said: “It was a pleasure to visit Horkesley Manor as part of National Care Home Open Week to officially open the Nursing Unit and Memory Centre.

“It is great to see an organisation like Stow Healthcare wanting to be progressive in their care offering and this is evident in the quality and thoughtfulness of the refurbishment.

Gazette: Team - Directors Ruth French and Roger Catchpole with home manager Judith Morgan-WorrallTeam - Directors Ruth French and Roger Catchpole with home manager Judith Morgan-Worrall (Image: Stow Healthcare)

"Their philosophy of taking on failed homes and turning them around coupled with the dedication and commitment of the staff working in their services is a recipe for success.”

Managing director Roger Catchpole said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of the Aspen Memory Centre and the Willow Nursing Unit at Horkesley Manor Care Home.

"These two new services will add high-quality specialist care accommodation to Colchester.

“With the support of Essex County Council, NHS Suffolk and Northeast Essex ICB, the Care Quality Commission, and the local community, I am confident Horkesley Manor will become one of the best care homes in the area.”

For more information about Horkesley Manor and the Aspen Memory Centre please contact the admissions team at 0333 2419707 or email admissions@stowhealthcare.co.uk