Holywell House Care Centre in Whitley Bay is celebrating after winning a national award for its end-of-life care.
The care home has been recognised with the Gold Standards Framework (GSF) Quality Hallmark Award, marking its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for residents during the final months and days of life.
The award follows nearly 18 months of comprehensive training and partnership with GSF professionals. Throughout this process, the team at Holywell House has worked hand-in-hand with residents, their families and healthcare partners to deliver compassionate, personalised care that meets each individual’s unique needs.
Julie McMurrough, the home’s manager and end-of-life care lead, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication and care that our entire team puts into supporting our residents from the moment they join us. We’ve worked tirelessly to meet the highest standards, and I’m incredibly proud of everyone here at Holywell House for achieving this.”
In preparation for the award, the home developed a range of initiatives, including a Forget Me Not memorial garden, where residents and their families can reflect and remember those they have lost. The garden is home to a beloved resident’s ashes and recently hosted a butterfly release ceremony to honour their memory.
Sue Gent, a Macmillan nurse who visited the home as part of the assessment process, praised the welcoming atmosphere and high level of care provided. After a thorough evaluation in July, the home received the official accreditation in August.
Lucy Craig, managing director of Craig Healthcare, which owns and manages Holywell House Care Centre, said: “At Craig Healthcare, we are passionate about delivering person-centered care that respects and values each individual’s wishes.
“The team at Holywell House exemplifies this ethos every day, going above and beyond to ensure our residents live well until the very end. I am incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication, which has rightfully earned them this national recognition.”
To celebrate this achievement, Holywell House hosted an event where staff, residents, family members and local healthcare professionals came together for a party and award unveiling.
