Dementia
Navigating the complexities of Dementia can be a tender journey, especially for those with a loved one diagnosed with this condition.
Dementia is a multi-faceted journey, characterised by various phases and Heanton Nursing Home understands the importance of adapting our care to align with the unique needs of individuals as they traverse through these different phases of their Dementia journey.
Our conviction lies in the belief that to provide meaningful care, it is vital for every team member, beyond the caregiving staff, to truly know and understand the individual they are caring for. We understand the significance of delving into the diverse narrative of each person’s life history, gaining insights that allow us to tailor our support to their specific needs. This holistic approach ensures that the care provided at Heanton Nursing Home is not just about managing symptoms but about fostering an environment where every resident, who we refer to as family member, is seen, understood, and valued at every stage of their unique Dementia journey.
We use the family member’s life story to build a picture of their past occupation, lifestyle, history, family, likes and dislikes and our team are trained in completing detailed care plans with the help of relatives.
We understand the demands memory loss places both on people living with a Dementia and on their families and this is where our Household Model of Care comes in, with the essence of Professor Thomas Kitwood’s profound philosophy.
Heanton Nursing Home endeavours to transcend conventional care, aspiring to establish a nurturing haven deeply grounded in understanding, compassion, and the principles of bespoke Evolve Care Academy training. Our commitment extends beyond mere caregiving, focusing on fostering an environment where each family member’s unique Dementia journey becomes a continuation of life—a space where their individuality is not only preserved but celebrated, affirming that the presence of Dementia should not impede the ongoing journey of living.
Residential
You know what it’s like when, one day, you suddenly realise that mum or dad isn’t coping any more. To be honest, mum or dad probably realise it too, but no-one’s willing to admit it. We’re here to help.
Moving into a care home simply means you’ve recognised that the time has come when a little help with everyday life wouldn’t go amiss.
What is Residential Care?
Also known as personal care or assisted living, residential care is a perfect solution for residents who need some assistance with daily activities but don’t require intensive nursing or rehabilitation care.
Respite
Respite care is a temporary stay in a care home. Respite care can help you to get back on your feet after you’ve had a spell in hospital or you’re recovering from an illness. It’s also a good option when the carer goes on holiday or needs a short break from caring.
Sometimes taking a break from the usual routine can make a huge difference, both for carers at home and for those who are being cared for.
For carers, it’s important to know that your loved one is in a safe, comfortable, homely environment so that you can truly enjoy the break you so much deserve.
Complex
Complex Care at Heanton Nursing Home
Heanton Nursing Home often supports individuals whose needs have not been successfully met in other health and social care settings. Many of the people who come to us have experienced multiple placements and/or placement breakdowns elsewhere in the Southwest and from other parts of the UK, often due to the complexity of their behaviours, cognitive conditions, or personal histories.
Our team is skilled and experienced in providing the kind of consistent, specialist support needed to create an environment and lived experience that fosters a safe and relaxed environment without such conspicuous compromises and restrictions.
They are also trained to help support those who are distressed, maintain trust and offer continuity for individuals whose care has previously been labelled challenging or difficult to sustain.
Located in North Devon, Heanton specialises in caring for people with neurocognitive disorders, behaviours that challenge and forensic backgrounds. Our approach is designed for those with high levels of behavioural complexity, individuals who require bespoke, skilled and consistent support.
What Makes Heanton Different?
Within Heanton there are four smaller houses, each designed to reduce overstimulation and promote emotional safety. These environments allow us to tailor routines, match people to one another, limit distress triggers and enable residents, who we fondly refer to as family members, to live as independently and meaningfully as possible.
Each house functions as its own therapeutic community, with a consistent and specialist team trained to manage complex presentations through non-pharmacological, trauma-informed strategies. This small-group living model is particularly effective for individuals with expressive behaviours, long-term psychiatric or forensic histories, or previous care placement breakdowns.
A Home for Life – Even as Needs Change
At Heanton, we provide a home for life. We understand that individuals’ needs can change, sometimes quite significantly and our unique internal structure allows us to respond flexibly. Family members may transition between houses as their physical, emotional, or behavioural needs evolve. These moves are always carefully managed in partnership with families, funders and a multidisciplinary team to ensure safety, dignity and continuity of care.
Who We Support
Heanton welcomes referrals for individuals who may need a more tailored and understanding environment, including those who:
Our Approach to Complex Behaviour
We don’t view behaviours as problems to be managed, they are communication. Our team is trained in the Evolve Model of Care, which focuses on emotional safety, attunement, and meeting unmet needs. We use Positive Behaviour Support planning, trauma-informed care and meaningful activity to create stability.
Ongoing clinical oversight includes:
We’re committed to making support as least restrictive as possible, while always prioritising safety and dignity. At Heanton, we believe everyone deserves the chance to continue living with meaning, connection, and respect – no matter their history, diagnosis, or level of need.