Visiting his late wife, Inez, at Renaissance Care’s Persley Castle Home, James Wood was struck by the dedication and compassion of staff.

Pictured: James with Inez

He decided that if the time came, the converted period house near Aberdeen would become his permanent home and in October, James followed in his wife’s footsteps and took up residence at Persley Castle.

“What brings me great comfort is that my late wife lived here,” says James. “I remember the very personal care she received and she loved the staff. They always had time for her, she was very well looked after.

“When I visited Inez, the staff were really good in communicating with us, letting us know how Inez was doing, the communication was great. Inez was always happy, never sad, and always looked forward to the day.”

James, 89, fondly remembers Inez’s love of nature and the time she spent in the grounds of Persley Castle, with stunning views of the River Don and surrounding woodlands.

Inez passed away in September 2023 at the age of 93 and James recalls being touched by the support of staff.

“A Thursday when I was called in, Inez was very close to leaving us, a couple of the staff members including Abby sat with me, they held my hand, they let me cry. One of the staff members put a cross on Inez’s chest which really meant a lot to me and would’ve meant a lot to her.”

James has settled into his new home and speaks of “the sense of community” provided by staff and residents.

He said a highlight was a recent visit by therapet dogs, which brought back memories of Inez.

James has a picture of his wife holding Pepper, one of the animals.

“It meant so much to me seeing the dogs, remembering all about Inez holding them. I asked Abby if she could take a photo of me and Pepper so we can recreate the photo we have of Inez and Pepper. She was more than happy to do that and it means a lot to me, knowing I have that.”

James looks forward to many years at Persley Castle and said families who are considering the home for a loved one should “do it”.

He added: “I’ve been here a month now and I feel like it’s the same care, the same interest from staff. There are familiar faces which makes it so much better – and they always make sure they take time to chat to me.

“Both my and my wife’s experience has been very personalised. The staff sit and try to find out as much as they can about you, the management is fantastic, there is great communication in the home, and seeing all the friendly smiles, happy faces day in day out, just makes you so much happier.”

Rachael Hope, Home Manager, said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to welcome James back to Persley Castle. His fond memories and great personality are a delight within the home.”

Pictured: Persley Castle Care Home