Sunnyside House is a detached country home, set in two acres of landscaped gardens in the village of Birdwood, at the edge of the Forest of Dean, seven miles west of Gloucester. The home provides residential support for up to 11 men and women with learning disabilities, autism and associated complex needs. Sunnyside is a relaxed, sociable community of varying ages with a strong family culture.
The main property, which has recently been refurbished, includes six, individual, ensuite bedrooms, a large communal lounge, dining room and modern kitchen, leading to a conservatory at the rear of the building. A separate bungalow contains four further bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and a lounge. In addition to the main house and bungalow, Sunnyside House has a self-contained annexe, designed for an individual who enjoys group activities and interaction, but finds living with other people challenging.
The large grounds are spacious and well-maintained, providing excellent opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Sunnyside hosts the annual Choice Care football tournament, then, when season is over, the garden is transformed into a 9-hole putting green. Other areas of land have been beautifully planted with flower borders, shrubs and saplings. Close by there is an allotment and poly-tunnel where residents grow their own vegetables
Sunnyside has its own Day Activities Coordinator, who develops in-house and community-based programmes, geared around individual needs and personal choice. There is a large, newly-built activity suite in the garden with electrics and heating. Residents are able to watch movies on the large flat screen TV, use the computer and internet or take part in arts and crafts. There are also musical instruments, such as electric keyboards, guitars and electric drums. The home has a pool table, bingo machine and music systems that keep everyone busy and entertained. It also has two vehicles used for a variety of recreational and educational trips and activities in the community.