Regency Cottage is a ‘home away from home’ for Norma

Miss Norma Dunn has been a client of Resthaven Western Community Services for the past three years, and particularly enjoys the connections she has made through its respite cottage at 111 Regency Road, Croydon Park.

Home Support Worker, Rosemary Gorodecky says, ‘Norma is a happy, cheeky member of our Regency Cottage family, and attends several times a week.’

‘Social support is an important part of the day respite program, and we offer all sorts of activities here at Regency Cottage.’

‘Recently, we held a “show and tell” day, where clients were encouraged to bring along an item of sentiment to share with the group.’

‘The day gives clients the perfect opportunity to share more about their lives and memories, and we all learn a lot from one another.’

‘Norma brought in a doll from her heritage in Russia, which she named Anastasia.’

‘Many years ago, Norma’s niece had travelled to their hometown in Russia, and bought the Russian doll as a gift for Norma.’

‘With family living so far away, the Russian doll has been an important gift for Norma—staying connected to her roots, both in Russia, and with her family overseas.’

‘As staff, it is special for us to get to know clients who we spend so much time with, and now we can truly understand that Regency Cottage is a home away from home for Norma.’

Thank you for sharing Miss Dunn’s story with us, Rosemary.

Resthaven Western Community Services offers respite for carers in a supportive, relaxed, and secure home style environment at Regency Cottage.

Respite care can reduce social isolation by providing carers with opportunities to meet with friends, attend a support group, or continue activities that are important to them, while the person they care for enjoys time socialising with others.

To find out more about day respite at Regency Cottage, phone 8345 0577.