Coloma Court, West Wickham, Kent

Coloma Court is a purpose-designed 68-bed home, opened in October 2006, providing nursing and residential care. It is situated within the Daughters of Mary and Joseph's estate, in West Wickham, in an open area, overlooking fields. Its private landscaped grounds give it its peaceful setting.

Coloma Court is the result of a long-standing, successful collaboration between two charities, with strong concerns for social welfare. The Daughters of Mary and Joseph is a Roman- Catholic Congregation, which, since 1869, has been closely involved in education, health and social welfare in England. Hospital Management Trust (HMT) is registered by the Care Quality Commission to provide nursing and dementia care for the elderly. Together they have developed Coloma Court to incorporate the up-to-date features needed to meet current expectations for long-term care of the elderly.

Maria Covington, the Matron Manager, has more than 20 years nursing experience, most of which has been dedicated to caring for the elderly. She has an NVQ4 qualification in healthcare management. Maria has worked for Hospital Management Trust (HMT) since 1994 and has held the post of Matron Manager since 2004.

At Coloma Court particular emphasis is placed on training staff to preserve and maintain the dignity, individuality and privacy of all residents, in a warm and caring atmosphere. When asked what makes Coloma Court special Maria says:

“Coloma Court has a friendly, homely atmosphere throughout the home. Continuity in staffing gives a feeling of familiarity to the residents and relatives.

The emphasis of the home is on good quality care, while the religious ethos upheld in the home plays an important part in the choice of both residents and relatives. Our objective is to help residents to keep their independence and to live a normal and happy life for as long as possible.”