Niall's story
A place that believed in my brother when others didn't
Niall shares his experience of finding support for his brother, Kieran, after years of placements that couldn’t meet his needs following a life-changing brain injury.
When care homes weren't the right fit
Before his injury, my brother Kieran lived with his wife and was looking forward to becoming a dad. He was independent, active, and had his whole future ahead of him.
Following his injury, everything changed. Kieran was left with severe cognitive and physical impairments and required 24-hour care.
Over the years, he lived in several different care homes, but none truly met his needs. Some lacked the skills or training he required. Others simply didn’t feel welcoming.
Too often, Kieran was left sitting for long periods because it was easier.
"As a family, it was devastating – and frightening – to feel like there were no good options."
The moment things felt different
When we first visited Greenacre Park, we noticed the difference straight away.
The team were warm, welcoming, and genuinely interested in Kieran as a person. They took time to get to know him, his interests, and what mattered to him.
I still remember them asking how he wanted to decorate his bedroom. It might sound like a small thing, but no one had ever asked that before.
For the first time in a long time, we felt hopeful.
From being cared for to really living
Since moving to Greenacre Park, the difference has been remarkable.
The team encourage Kieran to socialise with people, take part in activities, and be involved in daily life. Rather than focusing on what he can’t do, they focus on helping him make the most of what he can do.
With support from the team and physiotherapy, he’s increased his sitting tolerance from two hours to four hours, enabling him to do things we never thought would be possible again.
One of my favourite memories was taking him to watch Leicester City play at their home ground.
"Last year, we went to watch Leicester City play at their home ground. As a lifelong football fan, that moment meant everything."
A place that believes in what's still possible
What stands out most to me is that Greenacre Park doesn’t focus on Kieran’s limitations.
Instead, they focus on who he is, what he enjoys, and what he can still achieve.
"He's in a place that understands him, supports him, and believes in him. That belief has changed his life, and ours."
For families feeling unsure
If you’re worried about a loved one moving into a care home, I’d say this: the right team can make all the difference.
Everyone deserves a life with dignity, purpose, and opportunities to enjoy the things they love.
For our family, finding Greenacre Park gave us something we’d been missing for a long time – peace of mind.
Knowing Kieran is understood, supported, and valued has made a huge difference to all of us.
Looking for care for a family member?
Our Referrals Team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand the next steps.
