Q: How long do people stay with you?

A: It depends on how much damage the person has sustained. Some people are ready to move on after a few months. For others, it takes longer as there is more to relearn and having memory issues makes learning much harder. On average, every year 10% of the people we support move into less supported accommodation, either within our programme or externally.

Q: I know someone who is drinking too much and I think he might have Korsakoff’s Syndrome – can you help him?

A: We may be able to. Please give us a call on 01227 860516 and ask to speak to Rod or Bobbie Tarry. At the very least, we might be able to give you some useful advice which could help. We will do our best.

Q: I live with someone who has been diagnosed with Korsakoff’s Syndrome or another form of Alcohol-Related Brain Damage. I really want to support him/her at home. Do you have any tips for me?

A: First of all, bravo. This is an enormous sacrifice that you are making. We know how difficult this is. Our first recommendation would be to make sure you look after yourself too. Being a caregiver is extraordinarily draining and incredibly hard work. Second – we have prepared a page to help people in exactly your situation. You can find it here. And also – please know – when this all gets too much, we will be happy to help. You don’t need to do this alone.

Q: How much does it cost to stay with you?

A: Our fees, like the support we provide, are dependent on the needs of the person. There is no one-size-fits-all approach here. If you would like to talk to us about whether we might be able to help someone you know, please call 01227 860516 and ask to speak to Rod or Bobbie Tarry. We will then be able to give you a better idea of what our fees might be, but we will only be able to give you an exact quote once we have met with the person and assessed him or her in person. There is no fee for this assessment within mainland England, Scotland and Wales.

Q: Do you have any vacancies?

A: It’s unusual for us to have a vacancy as we have a very active waiting list. However, the first person on the waiting list might not be quite right for the first room that becomes available so although it’s first-come-first-served, it’s not quite that straightforward. Please get in touch with us to find out more.

Q: Are you recruiting?

A: We are always interested to hear from people who would like to work with our dynamic and motivated team, especially if you have a background in a similar field. Get in touch with Helen Johnson to find out if we have any current opportunities for you.

Q: Do you have any facilities in other countries?

A: Not currently, and we do not have any affiliation to other homes. We receive enquiries very regularly about this but unfortunately are unable to assist.

Q: Can we come and have a look around?

A: This is a difficult question. Elizabeth House and Artichoak Cottage are home to the people who currently live here. We take that very seriously. Neither you nor I would just say yes to a passing stranger who wanted to have a look in our lounge or bedroom at home, would we? Having said that, our team are very welcoming and you’re more than welcome to ask any question you like and to join us perhaps for lunch in the offices. Usually, a quick (and respectful) walk through the communal areas and gardens is fine, depending on what is happening, but only with the permission of the people who live here. We will do our best to show you, warts and all, what life is like here, but please keep in mind that this is home for people and not a visitors’ centre.

You may however be interested to know that we offer a free trial period to individuals so that they can get a feel for what it is like to live here before making a permanent decision. This is however only possible when a room is available. Get in touch with us if you have any questions.