FAQs

We have put together a list of frequently asked questions to help you find the information you need. We understand that moving into a care home, whether for yourself or a loved one, can bring lots of questions.

Please take a moment to read through our FAQs and if your query is not covered, our friendly team will be more than happy to assist you.

Care Questions

The notice period for full-time care at Mayflower Care Home is typically four weeks. However, we encourage families to speak with our management team directly, as we understand that each situation can be different and may require a more personalised approach.

We provide sensitive and compassionate palliative care, focusing on comfort, dignity, and emotional wellbeing. Our experienced staff work closely with families and healthcare professionals to ensure that residents receive the very best care during this time, always respecting individual wishes and needs.

Yes, Mayflower Care Home offers short-term respite stays. This type of care is ideal for individuals who need extra support following a hospital stay, or for carers who require a well-earned break. During respite stays, residents receive the same level of care, access to activities, dining, and facilities as our full-time residents.

Our approach goes beyond physical care, focusing on the whole person. We provide varied activities, entertainment, and opportunities for social interaction, as well as delicious and nutritious meals tailored to personal preferences. The gardens, hair salon, and pamper sessions add further balance, while our compassionate staff promote dignity, independence, and happiness each day.

Residential care focuses on providing support with everyday activities such as washing, dressing, meals, and social engagement, in a safe and welcoming environment. Nursing care, on the other hand, includes all of this plus the additional support of registered nurses available 24 hours a day to meet more complex medical needs. At Mayflower Care Home, we offer both, ensuring residents always have the right level of support.

At Mayflower Care Home, we provide personalised care plans that are regularly reviewed and adapted. If a resident’s care needs change during their time with us, our staff will work closely with the individual and their family to ensure their plan is updated accordingly. Because we offer a continuum of care, residents do not have to move elsewhere if their needs increase, which provides great peace of mind for both them and their loved ones.

Facilities Questions

Absolutely. While all rooms are fully furnished, residents are encouraged to personalise their space with photos, ornaments, and small pieces of furniture. This helps create a homely and familiar environment.

Yes, our in-house salon, “The Cut Above,” hosts weekly visits from a professional hairdresser. Pamper sessions and beauty treatments are also available, helping residents to feel confident and cared for.

Yes, all of our bedrooms feature private en-suite bathrooms, providing residents with comfort, privacy, and convenience. Many rooms also enjoy lovely views over the gardens.

A wide range of activities are available to suit different interests. These include arts and crafts, quizzes, music, themed events, games, gardening, and outings into the local Gravesend area. Activities are designed to promote social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical well-being, while residents are always encouraged to suggest ideas.

Our skilled chefs prepare freshly cooked meals each day, using locally sourced ingredients where possible. Meals are nutritious, tasty, and varied, with seasonal menus. We also cater for a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and culturally specific diets.

Mayflower Care Home features modern and comfortable facilities designed to enhance the quality of life. These include spacious en-suite bedrooms, cosy lounges, dining areas, landscaped gardens, an on-site hair salon and treatment room, and a programme of activities and entertainment.

Finance Questions

Fees may increase over time due to changes in operating costs such as staffing, utilities, or supplies. Any changes are communicated clearly and in advance to residents and families, ensuring transparency at all times.

Top-up fees are an additional contribution made by a family when the local authority funding does not fully cover the cost of a chosen care home or room. These are agreed in advance and clearly explained before admission.

In the sad event of a resident passing away, our team will sensitively support the family with arrangements. Any fees are usually charged up to the day the room is vacated, and we work closely with loved ones to ensure everything is handled with compassion and respect.

If a resident’s personal funds are running low, it may be possible to receive assistance from the local authority, subject to a financial assessment. We always encourage families to plan ahead and discuss options with our management team so that continuity of care is not disrupted.

Care home fees can be paid privately, with the support of the local authority, or through a combination of both. Funding arrangements vary, and our team is happy to guide families through the process to explore their options.

Weekly fees typically include accommodation, meals and refreshments, laundry, activities, and the full use of our facilities. Depending on the type of care required, additional nursing support may also be included. Any extras are always discussed in advance.

General Questions

Yes, trial stays can often be arranged. These short-term stays allow potential residents and their families to experience life at Mayflower Care Home before making a long-term decision.

Small pets may be allowed at Mayflower Care Home, depending on individual circumstances and suitability. We encourage families to discuss this with us directly so we can explore what is possible.

Of course. We welcome families to visit Mayflower Care Home for a guided tour, where you can meet our staff, see the facilities, and ask any questions in person. This helps ensure you feel confident and comfortable with your choice.

Yes, Mayflower Care Home is registered with and inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Inspection reports are publicly available and provide reassurance about the quality and safety of the care we provide.

Life at Mayflower Care Home Care Home

At our home, your daily life is shaped entirely by your preferences, there is no such thing as a typical day here. While our attentive staff provide discreet support and ensure your every need is met, you have the freedom to choose how you spend each moment, from the way you start your morning to when and where you dine. We are dedicated to creating a bespoke lifestyle that reflects your individuality, allowing you to enjoy comfort and choice every day. At Mayflower, you are empowered to live life on your own terms, surrounded by friendly faces and warmth.