Dementia Bus Stop & Garden Bus
Our dementia-friendly bus stop and garden bus offer familiar resting places for people who walk with purpose. These spaces reduce anxiety and provide comfort through recognition.
Empathy
One of the twelve values that guide care at West Heanton — across our residential home, day centre and home care services.
Empathy means understanding how people feel and responding with kindness. It is the foundation of compassionate care.
Our dementia-friendly bus stop and garden bus offer familiar resting places for people who walk with purpose, reducing anxiety and providing comfort. Staff take time to listen, reassure and understand emotional needs.
During heatwaves, we focus on hydration through activities, cold drinks and even our Mr Whippy ice cream machine — a simple but effective way to bring comfort and joy. Empathy is visible in the small moments: a gentle word, a patient pause, a shared laugh.
Empathy is not a technique — it is a mindset.
How we live this value
Examples from daily life at West Heanton — our environments, equipment, team and community connections.
Listening & Reassurance
Staff take time to listen, reassure and understand emotional needs. Empathy is visible in every interaction.
Hydration Activities
During heatwaves, we use hydration activities, cold drinks and fruit to keep people comfortable and safe.
Mr Whippy Ice Cream Machine
Our Mr Whippy machine provides a fun, refreshing way to keep people cool and hydrated. It brings joy and comfort during hot weather.