Regrettably, Birds’ Nest is not suitable for those who require a wheelchair indoors. We have decorated and furnished specifically for those in the early stages of degenerative neurological conditions; those with some mild brain injuries and those with PTSD or other conditions that may benefit from a simple layout and calming environment.
The property is all on one level, with no internal steps. There is one low step to the front door.
We will be making more changes during 2025 to ensure the outside of the property is well-lit, with motions-sensor lighting. Please request an update at time of booking.
There are 7 steps up to the viewing platform and a hand-rail. While every effort is made to keep these safe, please do take care. You are advised not to use the steps in very cold, or slippery conditions.
Memory Aids
There is a whiteboard and pen in the kitchen area for notes and reminders.
The wet-room has been designed with traditional-looking wash basin, wc and shower.
Visual Processing Aids
Everything needed for breakfast and drinks is set out on open shelves in the pine dresser, where it can be easily seen and reached. Kettle, toaster and coffee machine are clearly set out on the work surface. Cups, bowls and glasses are plain, strong colours (there are also some patterned bowls)
Instructions
Instructions to all kitchen appliances are stored in a drawer for easy reference
Seating
Our sofa comes from HSL and is high-backed, with head-rests and a matching foot-stool. The dining chairs and table are bistro-style, which although stable, some guests may find climbing into a little more difficult than regular dining chairs. However, we chose this style to enable those who were able, to eat meals while looking out of the window.
There are also 2 non-slip trays on bean-bag bases for those who prefer to eat with their plates on their knees. The foot stool is large enough to accommodate a standard tray for food and drink too.
Décor
With the exception of the porch and bathroom, the property is fully-carpeted (in case of falls) The furniture has rounded edges and the carpet runs throughout the living and sleeping areas with no break.
The sheepskin rugs were chosen so that they would offer flexibility: they can be back or foot rests as well as rugs and if guests are worried about tripping, they are small and light enough to be rolled up, stored in the linen bags in the wardrobe and put away.
Likewise, cushions have a range of patterns that blend in with the surroundings, or contrast. Plain covers are available to swap, should guests be affected by conditions such as Posterior Cortical Atrophy, which can make processing ‘busy’ or very contrasting patterns difficult.
We have chosen a colour palette that reflects the seaside location, but is also very calming on the eye. Marshalls of Preston helped us choose blinds that have silver, rather than white cords, so that they were easier to spot against the wall. The lighting, from James Kok in Fulwood can be adjusted to create a very well-lit space, right down to a gentle glow from the touch-operated lamps.
Bathroom
We have worked with Splash in Castle Douglas to create a bathroom that has a very traditional feel, with a sink, wc and shower unit that are straightforward to use.
The wash-basin has traditional-looking, lever-operated taps for ease of use and is deep enough for a wash, with sufficient space around the edge of the basin to place toiletries. There is a well-lit mirror and the lights have been chosen to minimise any harsh glow. There are also discrete hooks to hang a towel over the mirror, should this be required.
The WC is also very traditional in appearance, with a lever mechanism to flush. The seat is a mellow wood, to contrast with the white porcelain and the whole unit is marginally taller than the standard WC, which means guests may find it easier to sit on and rise off.
The floor is commercial grade non-slip and the wall tiles have been chosen to help clearly demarcate the toilet and hand-washing area from the shower. Matt tiles have been chosen to minimise reflection and glare and grab-rails have been discretely added alongside the toilet and within the walk-in shower area.
There is a bench in the shower, as well as lit alcove style shelf.
Sleeping Area
The bedroom area contains a super-king-sized bed, with a white bedside cabinet at each side. We have lamps in a contrasting blue and water tumblers that are tinted yellow, to help with visibility.
Coloured bedding, which clearly shows the difference between the quilt cover, pillow and bottom-sheet is available on request at the time of booking. Likewise, you may also order your bath towel, hand towel and face-cloth in different colours to avoid confusion.
Out and About – the Rollator
We have purchased a pneumatic rollator; a device that allows users who would normally use a walking frame to venture along shingle, sand or mown grass. This is used at the guest’s own risk and must not be used without an able-bodied adult present to assist.
The rollator can be used in the sea, to paddle, as long as the water does not come further than half-way up the wheels (it starts to float after that) It also doubles as a comfy seat. It must be booked for the week and as a condition of booking, guests undertake to use the rollator at their own risk and make they own judgment on where they take it. We would suggest damp, compact sand; flat tracks and managed grassland.
Sadly, the slipway down to Carrick Shore itself and the track are very uneven and we would advise you not to attempt them, but there are plenty of more accessible places to take the rollator, in particular some of the beautiful historic parks and gardens.
The rollator is free to use and can be folded up in the boot of a vehicle.