About us

The Elms Care Centre is an independent care home in the peaceful and charming town of Saltash. Popularly known as “the Gateway to Cornwall”, Saltash is situated by the banks of the River Tamar, on the border between Devon and Cornwall. The care home is conveniently located within easy reach of a full range of amenities, including banks, churches, shops, chemists, post office, library and GP surgeries.

We are registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to provide care for up to 37 elderly nursing residents. However, for the comfort and privacy of all residents, the few twin rooms have been converted to single-occupancy rooms. Within the 34 single bedrooms we can accept up to 6 residents with a physical disability, and up to 6 residents under the age of 65 who may need palliative care.

Choosing a care home is a big decision and we are here to support you and your loved ones with the process and ensure a smooth transition. We pride ourselves on our tailored approach to care and always carry out a comprehensive assessment of each individual upon admission to find out as much as we can about them and their specific needs. We believe that clear and constant communication between staff, residents, their family/representative and other health professionals is crucial in helping us understand how we can make our residents’ lives happier and more fulfilled. We provide a safe and caring environment where there is an opportunity to make new friends and try new hobbies.

We understand that the level of support needed by each person is different which is why we treat everyone as an individual. We offer residential and nursing care, tailored to meet specific requirements, with a registered nurse on duty 24 hours a day. Our diverse and talented team are carefully selected based on their various specialisms. Each person undergoes a thorough training programme when they start at The Elms so we can provide the highest quality of care. We have passion for caring for the elderly with dignity and respect, whilst providing a warm and friendly atmosphere, in order to allow our residents to feel at home.

Activities

The happiness and well-being of our residents is vitally important to us and we do our best to keep the mind and body active to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We encourage independence in activities participation but our staff are on hand to help if required. We can support up to 5 people for day care services and up to 37 permanent residents and offer a variety of activities to suit every need.

We employ two Activity Coordinators who plan a full and varied entertainment programme every month. Regular activities include live music, bingo, quizzes, board games, art activities, church services, history and reminiscence talks and armchair exercises. We also attend a local community group and organise regular excursions. Our all-inclusive approach to activities ensures that there is something for everyone and it is a great opportunity to socialise and get to know the other residents.

All of our activities are organised with our residents in mind and we are always open to suggestions for new ways to keep the mind alert and the body in shape. Studies show that staying physically and mentally active can help to slow aspects of the ageing process. At the Elms we certainly find that our residents’ quality and enjoyment of life increases if they participate in our activity programme.

Admission

Before anyone comes to live at The Elms, a pre-admission assessment will be completed by the Manager. This will determine whether our team can meet the care needs of the individual and it is a chance to ask any questions you may have about life in a care home. The assessment will be completed with input from residents, care professionals and relatives. Admission is subject to bed availability.

Prior to assessment, residents and relatives are welcome to visit the Elms Care Centre, have a cup of tea, meet our team and discuss any requirements you may have.

On admission all residents are registered with a local GP practice.

FOOD AND NUTRITION

Our excellent kitchen team prepare nutritionally-balanced meals each day, cooked with fresh ingredients sourced locally where possible. We try to accommodate different tastes as far as possible and also cater for specialist dietary requirements and favorite dishes. Our menu is reviewed regularly in consultation with our residents to ensure that it reflects their preferences.

A choice is offered for each meal and we are happy to provide alternatives on request. We provide 3 meals a day including a cooked 2-course lunch and a lighter option is offered for tea. Refreshments are offered throughout the day including tea, coffee and soft drinks. Nutrition and hydration are vital to maintain good health and well-being and our qualified and experienced kitchen team are on hand to discuss all your nutritional needs.

Our staff work hard to ensure that we provide a pleasant dining experience. Residents are able to choose where to eat. Some people prefer the privacy of their own room, whilst others enjoy eating together in our dining room or lounge areas. We are also able to assist with any mobility needs for eating and drinking.