Galahill House is set in its own lovely mature gardens, with hillside, ponds, birds and wildlife on the doorstep. The care home is an elegant traditional stone building, with large windows letting in plenty of light. The shared dining and living areas are beautifully appointed and look out onto the grounds and gardens. The home has room for 22 residents on two floors, and is managed by Angela Airlie and her team.
COMMUNITY
Galahill House is a friendly home with tranquil spaces for quieter residents as well as lively events and activities led by residents’ wishes. It has good links to the local community, with visits by St Peter’s School for pond-dipping, hedgehog-spotting and Easter egg hunts, as well as an annual sing-song with the Gala Braw Lad and Lass.
Residents can also be matched with regular befrienders from the Borders Volunteer Service, or join in local groups, including the bowling club, library and church. Many of the residents come from Galashiels, while others come from further afield and may have families in the local area. Many have professional backgrounds and are well travelled. While residents’ needs vary considerably, most require physical assistance, and a few need dementia support.
ACTVITIES
Activities at all Mansfield Care Group homes are resident-led, and organised by the wellness coordinator. Residents at Galahill House have enjoyed pet therapy, music-making, Frantic Theatre pantos, tapestry and pet therapy, as well as visits to Herge’s on the Loch, Quins, local shops and the seaside in summer. The gardens are lovely for sitting out, and some residents get involved in gardening. Others welcome visits by the local library, including the Talking Books service.