22 Feb Family Praises Dementia Carer for Restoring Calm, Trust and Connection
A family has shared their heartfelt gratitude to a dementia carer at The Mill House Care Home in Kington, Worcestershire, after seeing their father regain a sense of calm, reassurance and connection they feared had been lost.
Billie, whose father lives at the award-winning dementia care home, praised Toni Dunn, Deputy Manager at The Mill House, for the compassion and patience she showed from the moment they met.
For Billie and her family, the change they saw in their father was immediate — and deeply reassuring.
Building Trust Through Compassionate Dementia Care
Families supporting a loved one living with dementia often worry about how their relative will adapt to new surroundings or new carers. Building trust can take time, patience and a deep understanding of each individual’s needs.
For Billie’s father, Toni quickly established a connection that helped restore a sense of calm and security.
Billie explained:
“Toni was absolutely incredible with Dad from the second she met him. Where others had struggled, she immediately sparked a rapport with him, taking time to gain his trust and seeing past his dementia behaviours.
She was empathetic with him when he was scared and sad, and brought him back to a place of calm and peace. She continues to be patient, with a wonderful ability to see past the disease and connect to the man underneath.
Toni has succeeded in bringing a sparkle back to Dad that we feared was lost, and for this we will be eternally grateful. She’s a shining light.”
Supporting the Whole Family
For many families, dementia care is not only about supporting the resident — it is about providing reassurance and support for loved ones too.
Billie said the kindness shown by the team at The Mill House extended far beyond day-to-day care.
“Thank you for also supporting the three of us, for brushing Dad’s teeth and for giving him hugs for us when we aren’t there.”
Moments like these reflect the home’s family-centred approach to dementia care, where emotional connection and compassion are considered just as important as clinical support.
A Person-Centred Approach to Dementia Care
Alongside her management responsibilities, Toni remains closely involved in everyday care at The Mill House, taking time to build meaningful relationships with residents and their families.
This approach reflects the home’s commitment to person-centred dementia care, where every resident is recognised as an individual with their own personality, experiences and emotional needs.
Toni explained:
“Every person is still themselves, even as dementia changes how they express it. Taking the time to understand what someone needs in that moment — reassurance, calm, or simply kindness — can make a huge difference.”
Award-Winning Dementia Care in Worcestershire
Stories like this highlight the importance of compassion, patience and connection when supporting people living with dementia.
The Mill House Care Home in Kington is a family-run, award-winning provider of specialist dementia care, and one of only a small number of care homes in the UK to hold the National Dementia Care Accreditation Scheme (NaDCAS) Three Star Platinum Award.
The home focuses on creating an environment where residents feel safe, valued and understood — while ensuring families feel supported throughout the dementia journey.
Speaking to Someone About Dementia Care
For families reflecting on care options for a loved one, speaking with experienced professionals can often bring reassurance and clarity.
The team at The Mill House Care Home welcomes informal conversations with families who may be considering dementia care now or planning ahead for the future.
To find out more or arrange a visit, please call: 01386 793110.