A Warm Welcome for MP Deirdre Costigan at The Willows

At Cardinal Healthcare, we are deeply committed to creating safe, nurturing, and vibrant homes where residents feel valued and supported. As part of this commitment, we often welcome guests from the wider community to share in the life of our homes. Recently, we had the honour of hosting Deirdre Costigan, MP for Ealing Southall, at The Willows Nursing Home. Her visit was not only a highlight for our residents and staff but also a wonderful opportunity to showcase the compassionate care and family atmosphere we strive to provide every day.

A Gracious Visit

From the moment she arrived, Deirdre Costigan was warm, approachable, and genuinely interested in the life of The Willows. With grace and kindness, she was welcomed into our home by the team and immediately took the time to speak with residents, family members, and staff alike.

The visit was informal yet meaningful, with Deirdre showing a deep appreciation for the stories, experiences, and lives of the people she met. For many of our residents, who have lived rich and varied lives themselves, it was a wonderful experience to share memories and conversations with someone who represents them in Parliament.

Meeting Our Residents

One of the most touching aspects of the visit was the time Deirdre spent with our residents. She moved gently through the lounges and quiet areas, introducing herself with warmth and listening attentively to what each resident wished to share.

For some, it was a chance to reminisce about their younger years in Southall and beyond, while others spoke about their experiences of life at The Willows. A number of residents expressed their joy at the activities and events organised in the home, including recent celebrations and regular opportunities to take part in creative, musical, and social activities.

Her attentiveness created an atmosphere of genuine connection, and many of our residents later said how much they valued her willingness to listen and her approachable manner.

Conversations with Families

Family members present during the visit were equally impressed by Deirdre’s thoughtful approach. Choosing a care home for a loved one is never an easy decision, and relatives often want reassurance that their loved ones are happy, supported, and safe.

Deirdre took time to engage with families, asking them about their experiences of The Willows and their views on the broader challenges and opportunities within social care. It was clear that she valued their insights and wanted to hear first-hand the perspectives of those who rely on care services every day.

This openness to dialogue was greatly appreciated, as it underscored her commitment to representing her community with understanding and empathy.

Engaging with the Staff Team

No visit to a care home would be complete without meeting the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock care and support. At The Willows, our team of nurses, carers, activity coordinators, and hospitality staff embody Cardinal Healthcare’s mission of offering a loving home for life.

Deirdre made a point of thanking our team personally, recognising the hard work and compassion that goes into caring for others. She asked about the challenges faced in the care sector and listened as staff shared their experiences. Many spoke about the rewards of working in such a close-knit community, while also highlighting the importance of ongoing support and recognition for care professionals.

Her encouragement was warmly received, and it gave the team a sense of pride to know that their efforts are acknowledged not just within The Willows, but by their local MP too.

A Joyful Visit from Nicky Fisher

We were delighted to welcome Nicky Fisher, a talented singer and entertainer with over 20 years of experience, to perform for our residents.

With her vibrant presence and soulful voice, Nicky captivated everyone with a mix of ballads, Motown favourites, show tunes, and rock and roll classics. Residents clapped, sang along, and even shared fond memories sparked by the music.

Her glamorous performance brought sparkle and joy to the day, creating not just entertainment but a truly heart-warming and memorable experience for all.

Touring The Willows

During her time with us, Deirdre was also given a tour of the home. She visited residents’ bedrooms, bright communal lounges, dining areas, and the beautiful garden spaces that bring so much joy to those who live here.

The tour offered her a glimpse into daily life at The Willows, where comfort, safety, and homeliness are at the heart of everything we do. She admired the way residents’ rooms were personalised with photographs, mementos, and familiar belongings, reflecting our commitment to ensuring each resident feels truly at home.

The garden was another highlight of the tour, with residents sharing their love of spending time outdoors during the warmer months. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the thought and care that has gone into creating spaces where residents can relax, socialise, and enjoy the natural beauty around them.

The Importance of Community Connections

Visits such as these are not only uplifting for residents but also vital in strengthening the connection between care homes and the wider community. The presence of a local MP underscores the value of care homes as integral parts of neighbourhood life, where residents remain active members of society with voices and stories worth celebrating.

For The Willows, hosting Deirdre was a chance to highlight the positive culture we have built—one where kindness, respect, and dignity are at the forefront. It also allowed us to demonstrate our dedication to evidence-based, compassionate care, rooted in a belief that every resident deserves a home where they feel safe, supported, and cherished.

Reflections on a Memorable Day

As the visit came to a close, many residents remarked on how enjoyable the afternoon had been. Conversations with Deirdre left them feeling recognised and valued, while family members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to share their thoughts with their local MP.

Our staff too felt uplifted, inspired by the recognition and encouragement that came from someone in a position of leadership. For everyone at The Willows, the day was a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and the role that care homes play in enriching lives.

Looking Ahead

At Cardinal Healthcare, we will continue to foster these connections and provide opportunities for our residents to engage with the world beyond our walls. Visits like Deirdre Costigan’s are not only moments of joy but also important steps in ensuring that the voices of older people and their families are heard in wider conversations about care and community.

We are deeply grateful to Deirdre for her time, kindness, and genuine interest in our residents, families, and staff. Her visit will be fondly remembered and has left a lasting impression on our home.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to our mission of offering compassionate care, creating homes where residents can truly feel at ease, and ensuring that every day is filled with dignity, purpose, and warmth.