Eckington Court Opens Specialist ‘Reconnect’ Mental Health Care Community for Older People

We are thrilled to announce the official opening of our Reconnect Mental Health Care Community at Eckington Court in Derbyshire. This specialist service has been created to support older people living with complex mental health needs, offering a safe, therapeutic and truly person-centred place to call home.

A new approach to mental health care for older people

Reconnect Mental Health Care is a pioneering, purpose-built service for people aged 65 and over who are living with complex mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, delirium, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use disorders.

What makes Reconnect different is its holistic, person-centred approach. Care goes beyond clinical support, focusing on each person as a whole – their life history, routines, interests and what gives their life meaning. Residents are supported to rediscover a sense of purpose, rebuild meaningful connections and enjoy everyday moments that matter to them.

Personalised care, delivered by expert colleagues

To ensure the highest standard of care, Eckington Court operates an enhanced Specialist Support Worker-to-resident ratio. Colleagues receive expert, bespoke training through our Orchard Academy, equipping them with advanced skills and a deep understanding of mental health care for older people.

This investment means residents receive individualised support, shaped around their preferences, experiences and aspirations, helping them feel understood, respected and truly at home.

First of its kind in Derbyshire

The Reconnect Mental Health Care Community at Eckington Court is the first service of its kind in the Derbyshire district, and we are incredibly proud to bring this innovative model of care to the local community.

Too often, older people living with complex mental health needs experience extended hospital stays or placements that cannot fully support their wellbeing. Reconnect has been carefully designed to bridge this gap, offering a long-term, specialist care home environment where residents feel safe, supported and valued.

At Eckington Court, wellbeing, purpose and pleasure are central to daily life. Through tailored care plans, compassionate specialist teams and a nurturing environment, residents are empowered to reconnect with themselves, with others and with the world around them.

A space that truly feels like home

The home has been thoughtfully redesigned to reflect the warmth and familiarity of everyday living. Cosy lounges, welcoming kitchens, peaceful gardens and calm spaces for relaxation allow residents to move freely and live in ways that feel natural and reassuring.

Families are warmly welcomed and encouraged to be actively involved, helping residents maintain strong relationships, identity and continuity in their lives.

Trudy Godley, Home Manager, shared her pride in leading the launch of this specialist service with us. “Bringing Reconnect Mental Health Care to Eckington Court is a real honour. Knowing we’re creating a place where people feel understood, supported and genuinely at home means the world to all of us.”

Hayden Knight, CEO, added: “This opening represents a major step in our commitment to providing truly specialised and person-centred care for older people, and I want to thank the Eckington Court team for their exceptional hard work. We’re proud to deliver Reconnect Mental Health Care to the Derbyshire region and to support people living with complex mental health conditions in a way that truly meets their needs.”

The community officially opened on December 9, 2025, and has already begun welcoming residents. We are excited to see the positive impact this service will have and to watch the community grow.

A huge congratulations to Trudy and the entire Eckington Court team on a successful launch – we wish you every success in this new chapter.

If you’d like to learn more about the Reconnect Mental Health Care Community or Eckington Court, please visit our website or call 01246 430066 to speak with a friendly member of the team.