Kent Care Group Expands Nursing Provision to Meet Rising Local Demand and Support Residents’ Changing Needs
A family-run care group has strengthened its specialist offering after two of its Homes transitioned to nursing home status, helping residents access higher levels of clinical support without having to move to a new care setting.
Nellsar Care Homes, which operates 13 Care Homes across Kent, Surrey and Essex, has expanded the care available at Woodstock Care Home in Sittingbourne, while The Old Downs Care Home in Dartford will begin operating as a nursing home from 1st October 2026.
Kent County Council projects that Kent’s population aged 65 and over will increase by 20.4% between 2025 and 2035 – an additional 69,641 people, while demand for nursing placements is also expected to rise.
By integrating residential and nursing care within the same homes, Nellsar is helping to ease local pressure on provision while ensuring continuity of care. Residents can remain in a trusted setting, supported by familiar teams, even as their needs evolve, including those living with dementia, mobility challenges or requiring end-of-life care.
Roz Kelly, Home Manager at Woodstock Care Home, said: “For our residents, Woodstock is their Home. Being able to provide nursing care here means we can continue supporting people as their needs change, without them having to leave the place and people they know.”
Nicoleta Cristescu, Home Manager at The Old Downs Care Home, added: “Changes in someone’s health can happen gradually or unexpectedly. Having Registered Nurses within the Home means we can respond to more complex needs, while continuing to see and support the whole person – their preferences, relationships, routines and the things that matter to them.”
Martin Barrett, Managing Director of Nellsar Care Homes, said: “We know there will be a growing demand for nursing homes and higher levels of clinical support in the years ahead as the population ages and more people live for longer with complex health conditions. This transition is about both planning for that future demand, as well as responding to the needs that residents, families and healthcare partners in our local communities are already experiencing.
“This development is also an investment in our people. It creates further opportunities for clinically trained team members and Registered Nurses to continue developing their careers with Nellsar, while retaining their knowledge, experience and understanding of our residents.
“Keeping that expertise within our Homes benefits everyone. Residents continue to be supported by people who know them well, our care teams have access to consistent clinical leadership, and team members can see a clear pathway for their future with Nellsar.”
