Merchant Navy retirement village on the banks of the Mersey is leading the way

Mariners’ Park, a retirement village for Merchant Navy personnel, is “leading the way” in providing high-quality care and cutting-edge amenities.

A new apartment block will soon be added to the impressive site, which is situated in Wirral on the banks of the Mersey and is set to celebrate its 160th anniversary. Current amenities include a bistro, snooker room, gym, salon, beauty spa and more.

Although many residents have driven by the complex on numerous occasions, not many are aware of the excellent work being done at Mariners’ Park. Established approximately 160 years ago, it currently functions as a component of the care and assistance provided by the Nautilus Welfare Fund, a registered charity that provides a variety of specialised services to assist retired seafarers and their needy dependents.

This covers a range of independent living options, a care facility, and in-home assistance. In addition to having access to a wide range of support services and being surrounded by neighbours who share their values, retired mariners and their dependents can enjoy a long, safe, and happy retirement thanks to the specialised housing.

The 123 residences at Mariners’ Park Estate include houses, apartments, and bungalows. It also includes a 36-bed care facility situated on 16 acres of picturesque parkland with breathtaking views of the famous Liverpool skyline. From independent living residents to those in need of palliative care, Mariners’ Park offers a 360-degree approach with beautiful grounds, a bowling green, and a plethora of on-site activities.

But the real magic is what occurs on a daily basis with more than 100 knowledgeable and compassionate staff members who go above and beyond for the residents. The team has received great reviews from residents and their families, as evidenced by their high ratings from the CQC, Council, and carehome.co.uk. As a result, they have been finalists in the National British Care Awards multiple times.

Director Andrew Jones said: 

“I’m thoroughly proud of the team here and all that they do on a daily basis to give our residents the best quality of life possible during their twilight years. You can teach people anything, but you can’t teach someone to care. We have lots of processes and procedures, as you’d expect, but it’s the relationships the staff have with the residents and often the little things that make the real difference.”

Meanwhile, Manager Grace Holley said: 

“It’s a wonderful place to work, not just due to the amazing location but for the environment and ethos here. There’s always a great atmosphere on site and we have a fantastic team who genuinely care. The relationships we have with the residents are really special and you get to learn a lot from them about their days at sea.”

Some of the residents, like Bert, who is relatively new, have interesting tales from their days spent at sea. The 90-year-old, who was once Captain of John Wayne’s Wild Goose yacht and made close friends with famous actors and stars like Julie Andrews, recently returned to Wirral from California. Despite his advanced age, the former bodybuilder frequently visits the on-site gym.

Resident Sheena, 90, said: 

“I’ve been here for 70 years now after moving here with my parents in 1955. I loved it that much here that I decided to stay but to see how it’s developed with all the facilities is amazing! I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else — the staff are lovely and do anything for you and although I still have my freedom to get out and about, I have security here and no worries.”

Meanwhile, Anne said: 

“I will have been here for 16 years on 1st March, after moving with my husband who was a Dockmaster in Liverpool. I didn’t want to move here at first but he wanted to know I’d be safe and looked after after he went. He is sadly not with us but I’m glad we moved here — the staff are always there for you, there’s a great community feel and there are lots of events and things to do.”

The village offers supported living, a care facility, a dementia wing, independent living cottages and apartments, and palliative care. Mariners’ Park can accommodate most needs thanks to their 360-degree approach, and the new apartment block now under construction will make it the biggest retirement community in Wirral.

Director Andrew Jones summarised: 

“Many people drive past us every day but aren’t aware of what we do and the great work that goes on here. There’s no place quite like it that offers such a range of care services and facilities in such an idyllic location. As a charity, we also have case workers across the country helping ex Merchant Navy personnel. If you know anyone who has served, get in touch to see how we could help.”

To enquire about accommodation, you can call 0151 346 8888, or for more information on Nautilus and their work, you can visit their website.

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