Derby House – A care home for women with Learning Disabilities and Autism
Derby House is a welcoming home in Epsom for six women with learning disabilities and autism. Set in peaceful grounds in St Ebba’s, it offers a safe and supportive place to live.
We work closely with each person to understand what matters to them. Our goal is to help people live well in a way that feels right for them, with the right support, the right environment, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy life.
Welcome to Derby House, a registered care home for six women with learning disabilities and autism. Derby House provides a safe, caring home where people are supported to live a full and varied life. The residents enjoy an active social life and are encouraged to do what they want, both at home and in the community. Our staff team tailors support to each person’s individual needs, promoting independence and personal choice.
The women at Derby House need a lot of support in various aspects of their lives, and I’m here to make sure their goals and wishes come to life. My role is to support them to have a good quality of life, not just by providing personal care or administering medication, but by creating a warm and friendly environment that builds confidence. People are happy here, and that goes a long way in helping us understand what they’d like to do.
We take the residents out and support them in whatever they choose. Consistency is key, and learning what makes them happy and understanding their routines helps us make their lives easier and more enjoyable. We go at their pace.
I love taking the ladies out. We go to lots of places, and they’re involved in everything. About three times a week, I do sessions with people on an individual basis. For example, one session with a lady involves going out for lunch at a café, where she uses her iPad to choose what she wants, and we chat using her iPad. This helps her communicate functionally, not just saying “I want a cup of tea” but talking about whether it’s too hot or too cold, if she enjoyed it, or if she’d like another.
Derby House has been absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in that April and met Pam and the whole team, I felt like I was with extended family straight away. There’s such a feeling of warmth and caring. When Karen came for a trial day, we had a cup of tea together, and she felt at home immediately. She’s thriving now, thanks to all the support that’s in place.
If you give the residents the time, a smile, and a warm welcome, they’ll tell you what they need. Their opinions matter greatly here. Derby House is a compassionate and supportive home, and we’re like one family. It’s incredible to see Karen flourish—she’s doing things she’s never done before.
Karen attends MyTime sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, although she didn’t go today because of this meeting. Her favourite activity is going for drives, and she’s often out on the road. Recently, she went to the seaside, and she loved it.
Everyone at Derby House works with the same goal in mind. There is passion, care, and, most importantly, respect. The ladies here always come first.
Life at Derby House
Specialist support and person-centred care
We offer tailored care and support for women who may find mainstream services unsuitable. Our experienced team takes the time to build strong relationships and provide care that’s shaped around each person’s needs, preferences, and choices.
A safe, purpose-built home
Derby House is purpose-built and easy to get around. It includes individual bedrooms, a large enclosed garden, and spacious shared areas, including a kitchen, lounge and dining space where people can relax or take part in group activities. It’s designed to feel like home.
Experienced and skilled staff
Our team is trained in specialist communication methods and health support, including safe medication use. There is staff support available day and night, including waking night staff. Everyone working at Derby House has an enhanced DBS check.
Independence and meaningful activities
We support each person to take part in activities they enjoy and try new things. These might include cooking, gardening, creative projects, or helping with the daily running of the home. Activities are planned around each person’s interests and goals, helping build confidence and everyday skills.
Connections with local services and social outings
Located near MyTime Epsom, a day service that offers extra opportunities for socialising and community activities. People living at Derby House regularly go out for meals, enjoy hobbies like swimming or bowling, and take supported trips to places like the theatre.
Welcoming new residents and their families
We accept referrals through local authority care managers in Epsom & Ewell, Sutton, and surrounding areas. When a referral is made, we invite the person and their family or carers to visit the home. It’s a chance to get to know us – and for us to make sure we can offer the right support in a place that feels welcoming and safe.