We are a very lucky family to have found St John’s, as the care mum receives is literally saving her and helping to re-build what was a struggling family.
Our Accommodation
St John’s offers quality almshouse apartments based in the centre of Bath and Combe Park, adjacent to the RUH.
We currently have 96 almshouse apartments, creating a community, which supports and empowers people to be independent.
Independent Living Service
Our Independent Living Service is a person-centred service providing quality care and support which steps in when individuals need support to remain as independent as possible.
Being independent gives people a feeling of purpose and self-worth. Without independence, life can become meaningless. How many times have you heard someone say, ‘I don’t want to be a burden’?
The service is regulated under the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and is rated ‘good’.
Read our recent CQC Inspection report
What does it cost to live in an almshouse apartment?
Charges will vary depending on accommodation offered.
There is a weekly maintenance charge, which includes a rental charge, heating and water rates. The charge also covers general repairs, cleaning of communal areas, gardening and landscaping. Some people may be entitled to housing benefit.
Who provides the care?
The service is managed by our Head of Care and Community Services, who is registered with the Care Quality Commission. All our Independent Living Assistants receive a thorough induction process to equip them with the skills needed to provide effective care and support for our residents.
Our staff are passionate about the support they provide to people living in our apartments.
A quote from the recent CQC report, said,
People were supported and treated with dignity and respect; and involved as partners in their Care.
What does it mean to live independently at St John’s?
First of all, we are not a Care Home, although we are regulated under CQC to provide personal care should people need it.
Our Living Independently Service means people get to live in their own homes, safe in the knowledge there is, if needed, support from neighbours, community and staff.
Additionally, support staff provide 24-hour cover, seven days a week.
Is there is social scene at St John’s?
Absolutely. Residents can be involved as much or as little as they wish.
Examples of the sorts of things on offer include; Curry & Quiz Nights, Themed Evenings, Musical Events, Book Clubs, Afternoon Teas – all of which are organised by the residents’ social committee. There is also activities facilitated by our community outreach team, which our residents can access, such as Silver Swans Ballet, Ukelele Club, Stitch groups and intergenerational groups.
Peggy’s Story
Peggy, a resident at St John’s Foundation, was admitted to hospital in November 2018 following a bad fall, resulting in a broken hip. This meant that Peggy was in hospital over the Christmas period. Staff were delighted that she was able to return to her home at St John’s in the New Year. The hospital was happy to release her knowing the care and support that would be provided for her by the Independent Living Service (ILS) at St John’s.
In May 2019, Peggy received an invitation to the wedding of good friend, and she was desperate to attend. Her fall the previous year had affected her confidence and she didn’t go out as much as she used to; although she really wanted to go to the wedding, she felt this was going to be a big challenge on her own. Step forward our ILS team leader, Paul, who was happy to accompany her.
Having Paul at her side, comforted Peggy and she had a wonderful afternoon attending the wedding service at Bath’s Guildhall, together with the reception in The Pump Rooms. Not least, the couple getting married were delighted that Peggy was able to attend.
