“I Never Thought Care Would Be Like This”: Trevor Settles into Dale Brook Care Home

11 September 2025 Dale Brook

Dale Brook care home in Clay Cross has welcomed its first resident, 89-year-old Trevor Barnett.

Dale Brook is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art home designed to offer person-centred care in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

The new home features 66 en-suite bedrooms, landscaped gardens, a cinema room, a beauty salon, and the latest in care technology to support residents’ wellbeing and independence.

Trevor spent most of his life working as a welder, mechanical engineer and HGV driver. When he retired in 2000, Trevor celebrated with an around the world trip to Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and New York.

Since moving to Dale Brook, Trevor has enjoyed sharing memories with staff by watching recordings of his travels on the big screen. He said,

“It was lovely showing everyone where I’ve been, and we’ve also been out to Costa and attended a church coffee afternoon.”

When asked about a typical day at Dale Brook, Trevor explained:

“In the morning, I wake up, get washed, then I pick my outfit. I like to sit and have a chat before breakfast. After, sometimes I’ll go out with the carers to a café or see my family and friends.

“Afternoons and evenings are more relaxed — I like to watch TV or my travel recordings. Dinner is always so tasty and home-cooked, and I enjoy sitting with the carers chatting before heading to bed.”

Reflecting on his move to Dale Brook, Trevor added:

“The people are my favourite thing. I never thought being in care would be like this, but the staff are wonderful.”

Donal McFadden, the General Manager at Dale Brook, commented, “Welcoming Trevor as our very first resident has been such a special moment for us.

“It’s been amazing to see him settle in so well and feel at home. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Dale Brook, and we’re excited to welcome more residents over the coming months.”

You can find out more about life at Dale Brook at the home’s Coffee Morning in aid of Alzheimer’s Society on Thursday 18th September. From 11:00, all are welcome to enjoy coffee, cake, and great company, all while contributing to a charity that makes a huge difference in the lives of so many.

For more information, call 01246605150, email [email protected], visit the home’s website, or drop into Dale Brook on Derby Road, Clay Cross, Chesterfield, S45 9AG.

Offering a ‘Crystal Clear’ all-inclusive care package with no hidden fees to give residents and their families peace of mind, Dale Brook’s interior is thoughtfully designed to combine comfort, premium quality, and sustainability.

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