CASE STUDY
Forest Home, a 39-bed residential and dementia care home in Halstead, Essex, is renowned for its warm, family-run atmosphere and deep community ties. Set amidst beautiful gardens, it provides care for dementia, Parkinson’s, and respite residents; many of whom are local and already part of the same social fabric as the staff.
Despite its stellar reputation, Forest Home had long been invisible online. With an “under construction” website and limited digital presence, they struggled to connect with families, showcase their exceptional care, and attract new residents or staff.
To change that, Forest Home partnered with Care Connect Marketing to create a presence online, one that would amplify their story, support staff, and strengthen their position as a trusted, active member of the local community.
THE CHALLENGE
Forest Home’s values of warmth, familiarity, and family care weren’t being reflected online. With only posters and word-of-mouth to promote events, and no way for families to stay connected. Their biggest challenges were:
“People don’t realise the effort and time we put in to make sure that their families are well looked after and safe.”
The leadership team wanted a solution that went beyond a simple website, a central hub for residents, families, and staff.
THE STRATEGY
After a recommendation from their sister company, Forest Home Care,the team chose Care Connect Marketing to design and implement a complete digital solution. Their objectives were clear:
THE SOLUTION
Care Connect Marketing delivered a holistic digital transformation that combined technology, storytelling, and strategy. We worked on a number of projects, including:
A modern, mobile-friendly site that highlights the home’s care services, facilities, and vibrant daily life.
A custom-built system replacing paper-based training, allowing staff to complete courses remotely and more efficiently.
A dynamic tool to promote open days, fundraisers, and seasonal celebrations.
To authentically capture the warmth, joy, and human connection that define life at Forest Home.
Ensuring the home could finally be found online.
The staff portal was transformative, freeing up time, streamlining compliance, and supporting professional development.
“This is going to be so much better because they haven’t got to go down to the classroom. They can do it at home… and I’ll get it back quickly. It’s got to make a massive difference.”
THE COLLABORATION
The process was defined by open communication and genuine collaboration. Forest Home praised Care Connect Marketing’s responsiveness and support throughout the project.
“Brilliant. You’re always at the end of the phone. If I’m not sure about something, I can email you and you either email back or ring me. We know you’re always there.”
This close working relationship ensured the final product truly reflected Forest Home’s personality and purpose, a place where care, comfort, and community thrive.
THE RESULTS
Within just two months of launch, the new website began delivering tangible results.
The website now helps challenge common stereotypes about care homes, showcasing the active, joyful lives of residents.
“We’ve got two amazing activity ladies… they read stories to residents who are literally on the edge of their chairs. We try to keep everyone as active as possible.”
The summer event was a standout success, directly attributed to the new website’s visibility.
“Our summer event, due to advertising on the website, had such a good turnout, at least 70 people! And it wasn’t just popping in and out. They were here looking around, talking to residents and staff.
It was lovely.”
Forest Home’s online transformation coincided with receiving an ‘We Aim Higher’ award from Essex Dental Clinic, a testament to their outstanding compliance and compassionate care.
“The new website has made a real difference. We had a fantastic turnout of at least 70 people at our summer event, which we directly attribute to people finding us online. It’s been brilliant for showing our local community what life at Forest Home is really like – that our residents are engaged and active, not just sleeping in their chairs!
Working with Care Connect Marketing was brilliant. They are always at the end of the phone or an email, and we know they’re always there for us. We now have a digital presence we’re truly proud of.”
— Manager, Forest Home
THE FUTURE
With a successful website launch and renewed energy across the team, Forest Home is now looking ahead with confidence.
Next, we strive to support Forest with:
Forest Home now has a digital foundation that truly represents their heart and mission, ensuring they remain a cherished part of their Essex community for years to come.
At Care Connect, we believe every care provider should have a digital home that works as hard as they do. One that builds trust, supports families, and celebrates everyday life in care. The results at Forest Home prove how powerful that can be:
more engagement, stronger community connection, and renewed pride across the team.
If you’re ready to strengthen your own online presence, we’ll help you create a strategy that feels true to your home and delivers measurable impact. Contact us today to learn more about marketing for care homes.
