A Yeovil care home is marking a decade of service later this week.
Cooksons Court, part of the Somerset Care Group, is celebrating 10 years since it first opened its doors on September 19, 2015.
Since then, the not-for-profit nursing home has supported more than 2,160 residents with residential, nursing, dementia, and respite care.
One of those residents is Geoff Callow, who moved into Cooksons Court in October 2023 following an extended respite stay.
His wife, Julia, said: "The decision to move my husband, Geoff, into a care home came after a rapid decline in his wellbeing.
"There was no time for a gradual transition; he needed professional, ongoing support right away.
"It was essential to find a facility quickly, but also one I could trust to treat Geoff with dignity and compassion.
"Cooksons Court in Yeovil was recommended by a friend, and that prior knowledge was incredibly reassuring.
"Hearing from someone with direct experience made a difficult decision feel more manageable.
"The staff at Cooksons Court were kind and gentle, but the change was still difficult for both of us.
"Geoff was very confused and unsettled at first, and I left the first evening feeling devastated, knowing the decision was necessary but missing our daily life together.
"I visited every day, brought familiar things to his room, and spent time with him.
"Gradually, he started to settle in.
"The staff took a real interest in getting to know his routines and personality, and I began to truly trust their care.
"For us, Cooksons Court became a place of stability and in many ways our second home and port in a storm.
"The journey may be difficult, but it can also be filled with grace and not least of all moments of laughter and fun.
"The transition was sudden and tough, but I’m genuinely relieved and grateful that he is safe, well-supported, and respected."
Kristie Chubb, registered manager at Cooksons Court, said: "At Cooksons Court, we recognise that the 2,000 people we have supported over the past 10 years are individuals who not only have unique care needs, but who, like Geoff, also have their own life stories to tell.
"It is our privilege to provide specialist care for each and every one of them, as we also support their loved ones though what can be an emotionally challenging transition into care.
"We are proud to be marking this milestone in the life of our care home, recognising what those 10 years have meant, and continue to mean, to those we support and the community in which we live and work."
