Thames View, Thames Ditton
Aria Care Group’s Thames View Care Home is situated in a stunning location on the bank of the River Thames and offers a range of care services, from residential to full-time nursing
and specialist care, including support for complex conditions such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. The home has 75 rooms, a library, a cinema, a bistro, multiple eateries and a large, picturesque garden overlooking the river. Home Manager, Paul Fenech, revealed, “Our carers, nurses, chefs and hospitality team are committed to providing exceptional care and a fulfilling lifestyle for our residents.”
In order to ensure that care plans are tailored to the individual needs of each resident, Paul and his team take a genuine interest in how their residents like to spend their time, tailoring their
experience to ensure it’s every bit as enjoyable as life has always been. “We assess each resident’s unique medical, dietary and lifestyle needs before their arrival and throughout their time with us to ensure their care plan remains current and deliverable,” added Paul.
Keeping residents active and engaged is at the heart of Thames View’s mission. “Last year, we offered over 1,200 activities to our residents,” said Paul. The Health and Wellbeing Lead, Raquel, plays a pivotal role in this endeavour, earning recognition as a finalist for ‘Care Activities Coordinator/ Facilitator of the Year’ at the National Care Awards.
The activities range from weekly exercise classes to clubs catering to diverse interests such as books, music and crafts. Days out and the Twilight Club, where residents create and enjoy cocktails, add to the vibrancy of daily life.
One of the most cherished initiatives is the resident choir, founded by Raquel with the support of dementia charity, Lost Chord UK. “They host two concerts a year with over 100 people in attendance,” Paul highlighted. Additionally, the Dementia Friendly Café welcomes individuals with dementia to enjoy live music, coffee and pastries while connecting with residents and staff.
Dining at Thames View is an experience of choice and comfort. “We pride ourselves on offering a great dining experience to our residents,” said Paul. With a Bistro and multiple dining areas, residents have the freedom to select their dining preferences daily.
To ensure inclusivity, Thames View offers independence crockery toolkits for residents with visual, dementia or dexterity challenges, paired with the ‘Hospitality from the Heart Nutrition and Hydration Framework.’ This framework includes: a three-week rotating menu for variety and balance, regular taster sessions to accommodate residents’ preferences, locally sourced, high-quality ingredients for freshness and nutritional value, specialised diets adhering to IDDSI guidelines, including low-sodium, low-sugar, and dysphagia-friendly meals and nurturing a skilled and compassionate team.
Thames View’s dedication to quality care begins with its staff. Recruitment largely relies on referrals and open days, ensuring the team is built on trust and shared values. New hires undergo a thorough training program, pairing with experienced carers to facilitate a smooth transition. “Compassion and empathy are our priorities,” explained Paul, emphasising that professional skills can be developed with the right foundation of care. Staff members are celebrated through Aria Care’s recognition programs, such as Hearts of Gold and Living Our Values Everyday.
Every detail of Thames View’s design focuses on enhancing residents’ lives. From thoughtfully crafted living spaces to tailored care plans, the home ensures residents feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to live as independently as possible.
Despite its historical status, Thames View is committed to sustainability. “Aria Care Group is very proud to have been the first to globally implement the use of n-kind plant-based cleaning products in all care homes,” Paul shared. These eco-friendly products align with the home’s mission to make sustainable choices without compromising on cleanliness.
Thames View embodies the values of the Aria Care Group, placing community and person-centred care at the forefront. “We believe in delivering person-centred care to ensure our residents feel safe and can embrace their interests,” Paul said.
Paul encapsulates the essence of Thames View: “Life at Thames View is filled with activity, luxurious accommodation, delicious food and exceptional care. We strive to make every day memorable for our residents, creating a loving and welcoming environment, both within the home and around the local community.”
In every sense, Thames View is more than a care home—it is a thriving community that prioritises joy, dignity, and the wellbeing of its residents.
ariacare.co.uk/find-a-home/thames-view/
