Four people call Crosby Close home. Two men and two women, aged 53 to 86, each living life in their own way.

It’s a house full of music, movement and good company, and there’s always something going on during the week.

On Mondays, there are adaptive exercise sessions to get everyone moving. Tuesdays often begin with church, followed by a trip to St Luke’s for the community dinner, and sometimes a visit to the St Albans Community Pantry. Wednesdays are for friendship groups, a chance to meet others, try new activities and spend time together. There’s also a dementia group for those who find it helpful. Every couple of weeks, Thursday means Magpie London club, with games, crafts and the occasional pizza night. Fridays can start with a breakfast club, a relaxed way to head into the weekend.

One housemate heads to the local learning centre twice a week. There are also close links with a local Arts group, Trestle, in which dance and friendship groups bring even more chances to get out and about. The local park is a favourite spot, especially when the weather is kind, and arts and crafts sessions are always popular.

A little more about everyone:

Music is a big part of life at Crosby Close.

Steven is very sociable, happiest with a guitar in his hands. He loves going for a drive and spending time with his family.

Alison loves going for tea and cake. When not out and about enjoying a cuppa and a slice on her adventures, she can be found sitting in the garden when the sun is shining, soaking up the warmth.

June loves to sing along to hymns and never says no to good food.

Phillip always looks forward to the community dinner at St Luke’s, especially the pudding. A bit of chocolate will always be warmly welcomed.

Hello, I’m Antoinette, and I’ve been at MacIntyre for about 11 years now, having first started as a Relief Support Worker, and then working my way up. I’ve been at Crosby Close for about 8-9 years, and have really got to know everyone here incredibly well - Crosby Close has been a part of MacIntyre for 30 years, and it’s lovely to see people who first moved in have lived here ever since.

People live very busy lives at Crosby Close, and it’s great to be able to be a part of it, whether that’s community dinners and breakfast clubs, or different social groups and family events, people really feel part of a community. I believe in leading from the front, and as a team we continue to build relationships with families and the local community. We put people at the heart of everything we do, and it’s lovely to hear families recognise the work we do in getting it right for each person.

- Antoinette Kotula

Extracts from latest CQC Report

“People's relatives were complimentary about the running of the home and the standards of care. One relative said, "I can't find the words to describe how wonderful it is there. I cannot thank them enough for their caring and dedication to my relative.".”