Woodlands

Woodlands is a purpose-built centre standing in three and a half acres of landscaped grounds. It offers high quality care in a pleasant and welcoming environment.

Woodlands is easily reached by train or car and guests can be collected from the station in one of the centre's specially adapted vehicles.

The attractive, one-storey building has 20 spacious single rooms, all with en suite facilities. It is equipped to accomodate any level of disability. Qualified nursing care is available 24 hours a day.

The lounge and sun lounge overlook the south-facing courtyard. There is also a bar and smoking room. Meals are of a high standard and special diets are catered for.

Guests are encouraged to use the physiotherapy and hydrotherapy suite. Other treatments such as reflexology and aromatherapy are also available.

There is a varied programme of outings and leisure activities throughout the year, including several special interest weeks and visits to York.

Woodlands holds dual registration for both nursing and residential care and the emphasis is on quality care. Generous staffing levels and specialist equipment enable total care of heavily dependent people to be given in a relaxed atmosphere. All the staff are particularly experienced in understanding and meeting the needs of people with Multiple Sclerosis and each guest has a care plan which encourages them to achieve their full potential. This is drawn up after discussion with the person themselves and their regular carer, and the philosophy adopted is to allow as much independence and individual freedom of choice as possible, so that the usual routine is maintained for the period of stay.

The weekly admission day is Saturday, and guests usually stay for one or two weeks. Bookings can be made by telephone during office hours (Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm). Woodlands is fortunate to employ a Welfare Liaison Advisor who provides the initial point of contact for Local Authorities or individual clients, both to assist with referrals and co-ordination of packages of respite care. Unfortunately there is no designated accommodation for carers on the premises, but a hotel can be recommended in the locality should friends or relatives wish to spend some time in York.