Posts by Josie Wilson, CQC Registered Manager

The start of a new year is a time for fresh starts, reflection, and hope, and at The Firs Residential Home in Breaston, Derbyshire, it’s also a time for laughter, honesty, and community spirit. Our residents took part in a heart‑warming activity: Writing down their 2026 New Year’s resolutions and proudly sharing them. These handwritten…

Excitement is building at The Firs with residents and staff looking forward to celebrating Christmas together as a family. Our home has been filled with laughter, festive decorations, and plenty of Christmas jumpers. Residents have been getting into the spirit by wearing their favourite festive knits, sparking smiles and conversations throughout the home. These simple…

When we think about the wellbeing of our elderly loved ones, physical care often comes to mind first. Yet emotional care is equally crucial, as it is at all stages of life. In this blog post, we explain why emotional support in care homes is particularly important, and how we prioritise the emotional wellbeing of…

Christmas is a time for warmth, connection, and togetherness, but for many families caring for an elderly loved one, it can also be a time of pressure, exhaustion, and worry. And for older adults living alone, the festive season can feel especially quiet or isolating. At The Firs, we believe everyone deserves company, comfort, and…

At The Firs, we stand out for our short-term care through a combination of professional expertise and genuine warmth that helps guests feel safe, valued, and truly at home. But the top reasons to choose a care home for its respite services depends on what you value. Understanding the Benefits of Choosing the Right Respite…

November has been a wonderful month here at The Firs in Derby, filled with a variety of activities designed to bring our residents joy, engagement, and connection. As the autumn leaves fell and the days grew shorter, we made sure our residents had plenty of opportunities to stay active, creative, and socially connected. From lively…

Any major life change can feel daunting at any age, from starting preschool to deciding whether to move into a residential care home. The latter is a major life adjustment that comes with emotional considerations, lifestyle adjustments, and the need to build trust in a new environment, which is why many are turning to a…

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, one of the first questions you ask is, “Can someone with dementia go into a care home?” The answer is yes. Dementia specialist care homes in Derby, such as The Firs Care Home, are equipped to provide 24/7 support tailored to the unique needs of individuals with…

Choosing a care home for a loved one is a significant decision that requires careful thought and consideration. It’s a process that can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. One of the best ways to gain clarity is by visiting potential care homes and asking the right questions. How to choose the…