Our ethos
About Louise…
I have worked in social care since 2002, beginning my career as a care assistant in a domiciliary care company. From the very first visit I knew I would love working in care.
I have held many different roles from area supervisor, care co-ordinator, customer care consultant, deputy manager and then onto becoming a registered care manager.
Working in care humbles you as a person to strive to do better for those that we support. Making a difference to the lives of our residents and ensuring that everyone is treated as an individual is what makes me determined to achieve.
I am passionate about providing a quality care service in Austenwood Care Home. It is important to me that Austenwood has a warm and friendly environment that is not clinical but feels like home. By investing in my team, we have the skills, experience and values to ensure residents are being cared for with kindness and compassion.
My objective is always to make the process of managing and running Austenwood as transparently as possible, and to ensure it has an open, positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Louise Hickman, Home Manager
Family-Centered Care
Our philosophy at Austenwood is that family is integral to our residents’ lives and overall well-being. We have an open and welcoming atmosphere where family members can get involved in every aspect of their loved ones’ care.
Whether visiting in person or staying connected through phone and email, we inform relatives regularly. Every family is different, so we offer flexibility and responsiveness to ensure they feel confident and involved during every stage of care. We work to create a true sense of community where families and residents feel valued and at home.
Quality of Care
Exceptional care begins with a team that genuinely cares. At Austenwood, we handpick our staff members for their education, skills and dedication to making a real difference. We believe in nurturing long-lasting relationships with our residents, which is why most of our team members have been with us for many years, providing consistent, familiar care.
Through continuous professional development and specialist training, including nursing expertise, we stay ahead of best practices to ensure everyone feels supported and valued. Whether residential, nursing or dementia care, Austenwood creates a space where residents can feel genuinely at home.
Social Life and Activities
We centre our days around creating fulfilment for all our residents, whether they’re receiving residential, dementia or nursing care. Our wide range of activities, from quiet moments in our gardens to lively film screenings and pampering sessions, ensures something for everyone.
We aim to bring joy to each resident and varying experiences to make their days as enjoyable and meaningful as possible. Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon in our sensory room or socialising with others during a group activity, residents can be part of a warm, engaging community where everyone feels respected, connected and eager for the next day.
Care Home cleanliness and Safety
The safety and well-being of our residents are at the forefront of everything we do. We ensure the premises are always clean, maintaining the highest hygiene standards. From bedrooms to communal spaces, a safe and comfortable environment is available for everyone.
We perform regular safety checks so our residents and their families can enjoy peace of mind knowing they are well cared for. We also believe in creating a secure, welcoming home where residents feel truly at ease.
Find out more
If you have any questions about our home, the care we provide at Austenwood, or our current vacancies, please get in touch today. You can either contact us online or on the phone, or pop in for a chat if you’re in the area.
Our door is always open.
