insideKENT Magazine Issue 22 - January 2014 | Page 160
Would living in a retirement
community suit you?
We asked Fiona Wookey from Holy Cross Priory, near Heathfield, East Sussex to give us the low-down.
Why do people choose to move?
The majority want to ensure that they enjoy making their own
decision about their future home - and it isn’t left to a relative
due to a crisis. Many people were concerned about the practical
demands and costs of maintaining a big house and garden. Plus,
their current homes are not designed for potential future care
needs and, if they were widowed, life would be very lonely.
What makes your community different?
Unlike so many other large, shareholder-owned retirement villages,
Holy Cross is totally independent and run by the people who work
there, for the benefit of the residents and the community. Owners
of Holy Cross Priory apartments are able to get involved in shaping
how things are run in the retirement community if they wish.
How is it an investment? What type of
accommodation is on offer?
You are still purchasing a home, so you are investing in bricks and
mortar. You can find some rented retirement flats, but at Holy
Cross Priory you would own your apartment. We have 20 stunning
1- and 2-bedroom apartments in a Grade-ll listed Priory building
and 20 new build 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. There is also a
separate care home within the grounds.
Tell us about facilities that are on offer?
There is a restaurant, library, small shop, hair salon, croquet and
bowls lawns, clubs, allotments, chapel, function room and guest
suite for visitors. There is also assistance with transport to the local
towns and villages, so you get the best of both worlds – access to
local amenities with a private and very peaceful rural setting.
How is it a sociable experience?
The apartments combine stylish features with subtle, practical
elements that enable it to suit any needs in the future. For example,
the apartments include wet rooms and wider doorways, alongside
period features and luxury fittings. There is also some housekeeping
support included in the purchase price and the option of an inhome personal care service, if you should ever need it.
You will have neighbours of a similar age and be able to socialise
in a number of ways. At Holy Cross Priory, you can always set
up new social clubs and activities too. It is so important for
your health and wellbeing to not be isolated as you get older. A
retirement community enables you to live as privately as you
wish, but have the companionship of other retirees, domestic and
care staff within easy reach.
Why not take a look around Holy Cross Priory?
To arrange a no-pressure tour and request a brochure contact Fiona Wookey on
01435 863764 or email fi[email protected]
Prices start from £199,950.
www.holycrosspriory.co.uk