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THE COMFORT LIFE REPORT:Berwick House 

4062 Shelbourne Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8N 3E6
 (view map) | 2 reviews 
Lifestyle options:
Independent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term Care
Guest stays available, Respite care available, Convalescent care, Palliative care available
Cost (from):
$5,000 (retirement), $7,000 (long-term care)
Suites:
137 suites (1-bed, 2-bed, Studio)

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Our Perspective

How we see Berwick House

Berwick House in the Gordon Head area of Victoria is an award-winning, established community that brought the company’s original vision to fruition. Management has a reputation for hard work, dedication, and deep empathy. New renovations launched in 2022 give this residence a revitalized look and feel.

It's a beautiful mid-rise building and a vibrant community that includes lively outings and shared holiday celebrations, just a few examples of activities you can join in. Nearby attractions are part and parcel of life here, with outings to places like Swan Lake, Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Butchart Gardens, as well as local pubs and shops. These shared activities make life in this community enjoyable.

This is upscale senior living that lets you leave behind housework, yard work … any kind of work. Suites are spacious, looking out over Shelbourne Street or the building’s quiet inner courtyard and gardens. There’s a full continuum of care, including assisted living up to long-term care, making it ideal for couples with varying care needs. Chris and Gordon Denford, the family-minded visionaries behind Berwick House, set out to create communities they would be proud to live in themselves. A personal sense of accountability is a hallmark of life at Berwick House, trickling down to all staff, who treat residents like their own family.

Community’s Perspective

How Berwick House sees itself

Who are you as a community?

Berwick House, the first Berwick Retirement Community, set a new standard in Victoria when it opened in 1989. Nestled in the desirable Gordon Head neighbourhood, it has been extensively updated and offers comfort, security and our usual standard of affordable luxury. Just steps away from a mall, cinema and other conveniences, you’ll find everything you need for an independent and active lifestyle. Contact us today for a personal visit.

What do you do differently or uniquely well?

Berwick offers a resort-style lifestyle in unparalleled locations throughout British Columbia. it's inspired senior living designed to empower independent seniors to thrive, stay active and engaged. Our resort-style amenities and services enable residents to age on their own terms. With multiple dining venues from restaurant-style dining rooms, a grab n' go Bistro and beautifully designed lounges offering seasonal menus and local wines, fitness centres with state-of-the-art equipment, many thoughtfully designed multipurpose spaces for more opportunities to engage with others or pursue interests on your own time, expansive suites with kitchenettes, and a robust wellness program all designed to help you maintain your independence.

What supports do you offer residents as they adjust to life there?

As advocates for seniors, we believe that by learning about their lives and interests, and helping them articulate their needs and wants, we can truly facilitate the transition from a situation that is not quite working anymore, whether to our community or elsewhere. In the event that one of these amazing people decides to call Berwick their home, we are then able to welcome them in a way that says, “This is home.”

How are residents supported if their needs change?

Berwick House has not responded to this question yet.

Under what conditions would you advise someone against choosing your community?

Berwick House has not responded to this question yet.

What might residents find surprising about your community?

We are proud to be locally-owned and operated by father and son, Gordon and Chris Denford. From the opening of our very first retirement community, the Denford’s realized the importance of creating a warm and welcoming community that put the needs of our residents first. Gordon and Chris are actively involved in the development and operation of each unique location and their philosophy of accessible, approachable and effective listening allows Berwick to adapt quickly to the residents’ changing needs. Their openness and commitment to our residents can be felt in every aspect of life at all our Berwick’s.

How will your community change in the next five years?

Berwick House has not responded to this question yet.

What five facts about your community should people know?

- Berwick House was the first Berwick to be built. Opened in 1989.
- One of our current GM’s got married at Berwick House, the CRM officiated.
- Our current Executive Chef started as a dishwasher at 14.
- Our Active Living Manager started in 1991 and is one of the longest standing employees of Berwick.
- Our unique design features common sitting areas (3) on the 2nd-4th floors allowing for quiet relaxing enjoyment.

Insider Perspectives

Reviews of Berwick House

What residents and their loved ones say about Berwick House in reviews.

John Blum, family member

"Great care. Five stars."

Janet Simmons, family member

"My Mum lived in her suite for 10 years ... I highly [recommend them] at Shelbourne. All of the staff are excellent, they treat everyone just like family. I have never had a negative thing to say about anyone and the food is excellent."

Read all reviews

Lifestyle

Lifestyle options

Independent Living (definition)
Cost from $5,000

At Berwick House, we are constantly looking to redefine what active aging means for our residents. We respect your independence and will always provide the highest standard of professional service, delivered in a warm and friendly manner, to ensure you feel right at home. Our Independent Living offers an escape from the day-to-day chores of running a home, preparing meals and keeping up with housekeeping. Our extended recreational sports and extensive health and wellness programs provide endless opportunties to engage as little or as much as you choose. Take up a new sport, channel your inner artist, build new friendships or discover a new passion. When you choose Berwick by the Sea, your all-inclusive seaside lifestyle includes your suite complete with heat, hydro, air-conditioning and classic cable TV and Internet. You will enjoy three delicious chef-prepared meals and snacks daily, weekly housekeeping and linen service to keep your home sparkling, full access to our active living programs, access to our transportation services including the Berwick Bus and Berwick Around Town (BAT) car, and our 24/7 emergency pendant monitoring ensures that you have security and support around the clock if you need it.

Includes

  • Meals (3x/day)
  • Daily tidy
  • Housekeeping (1x/week)

Assisted Living (definition)
Cost from $5,000

Enhanced Living Services are here to help when you need some extra support to maintain your independence. We will work with you to schedule additional services, as and when you need them, to ensure that you remain independent and able to enjoy life to the fullest.

Includes

  • Meals (3x/day)
  • Daily tidy
  • Housekeeping (1x/week)
  • Medication administration (Extra fee)
  • Resident Reminders (Extra fee)

Assistance with

  • Bathing (Extra fee)
  • Dressing (Extra fee)

Long-term Care (definition)
Cost from $7,000

Licensed Care in our Brio Care Suites is available at Berwick House to ensure you have access to a 24/7 supportive care option. Our team of licensed skilled nurses and registered care aids will offer care and comfort to each resident.

Includes

  • Designated dining area
  • Designated floor
  • Meals (3x/day)
  • Daily tidy
  • Housekeeping (1x/week)
  • Incontinence care
  • Medication administration
  • Resident Reminders

Assistance with

  • Bathing (2x/week)
  • Dressing
  • Feeding
  • Transfers

Suites

Type Size
(sq ft)
Lifestyle CostCompanion fee Includes Contact
1-bed 533 $5,000 (Rent) +$800 per month
  • Cable TV in room (included)
  • Call Bell System
  • Kitchenette
  • Patio/Balcony
  • Personal phone number in room (included)
  • Safe
2-bed 761 - 778 $7,000 (Rent) +$800 per month
  • Cable TV in room (included)
  • Call Bell System
  • Kitchenette
  • Patio/Balcony
  • Personal phone number in room (included)
  • Safe
Studio 243 $7,000 (Rent) N/A
  • Cable TV in room (included)
  • Call Bell System
  • Personal phone number in room (included)
  • Safe
  • Type: 1-bed
  • Ownership: Rent
  • Cost: $5,000
  • Size: 533sq/ft
  • Companion fee: +$800
  • Details:
    • Cable TV in room (included)
    • Call Bell System
    • Kitchenette
    • Patio/Balcony
    • Personal phone number in room (included)
    • Safe
  • Contact: email

  • Type: 2-bed
  • Ownership: Rent
  • Cost: $7,000
  • Size: 761sq/ft
  • Companion fee: +$800
  • Details:
    • Cable TV in room (included)
    • Call Bell System
    • Kitchenette
    • Patio/Balcony
    • Personal phone number in room (included)
    • Safe
  • Contact: email

  • Type: Studio
  • Ownership: Rent
  • Cost: $7,000
  • Size: 243sq/ft
  • Companion fee: N/A
  • Details:
    • Cable TV in room (included)
    • Call Bell System
    • Personal phone number in room (included)
    • Safe
  • Contact: email

Dining

We never underestimate the importance of delicious meals created with fresh, local ingredients, beautifully prepared and served. Our Red Seal chefs create menus that will not only tempt your taste buds and delight your senses but are also designed to provide optimum nutrition. At Berwick, we believe in supporting our local bakers and farmers to ensure that our meals are prepared with the highest quality local ingredients available. Our five different lunch and dinner meal options include flavourful homemade soups, fresh-baked bread, artfully seasoned entrées, delectable desserts and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are designed to provide lots of choices for all tastes. We know that you may prefer to eat a little differently each day to accommodate your schedule of activities and daily fluctuations to your appetite. That is why you will find no assigned seating at Berwick House. Whether you choose to enjoy our full table service in the elegant dining room or informal self-serve in the bistro with its own unique menu, our flexible meal options are designed to accommodate you. Host a family affair or special occasion in our beautifully appointed private dining room. We never underestimate the importance of food service and dining options; that is The Berwick Way.

Meal service : Bar, Bistro: (daytime), Table service, Tray service in suite (included)

Seating type : Open seating

Special diets : Ethnic, Gluten Free, Low sodium, Vegetarian

Amenities & Services

Residence Amenities & Services

The amenities at Berwick House have been designed with you in mind. We have created unique rooms and spaces for you to enjoy alone or with friends. Whether you are seeking some peace and quiet or an energetic activity to put a smile on your face, our common areas are yours to enjoy.

Arts and crafts
Billiards
Community Garden
Emergency call system (pendent)
Fitness Studio
Games Room
Hairdresser
Internet
Laundry machines
Library
Mail box
Movie theatre
Newspaper delivery available to suite
Onsite foot care
Parking (outdoor)
Patio/Courtyard/BBQ
Pet friendly
Pond/Lake
Private bus for outings, regular trips
Private dining room for family/friends
Recreation facilities onsite
Religious Services & Holiday Celebrations
Spa tub or shower room
Walking Path
Wellness Center
Wheelchair Accessible

Programs & Activities

Arts and Crafts
Assisted Walks/Trails
Bible Classes
Billiards/Pool Tables
Bingo
Bocce Ball
Brain Fitness
Card Games
Continued education
Day Trips
Excursions
Exercise Program
Gardening
Golf
Movie Nights
Parties
Religious & Holiday Services
Theatre
Volunteering
Weekly Shopping Trips & Excursions

Staff & Care

General Manager's Message
Tom Goluza

On behalf of our entire team at Berwick House, I invite you and your family to visit us in Gordon Head and to call on us for support and resources during this time of change. I am privileged to be part of the first Berwick community, that's been open for 33 years, and hope to make your visit enjoyable and meaningful. As advocates and counselors for seniors, we believe that by learning about their lives and interests, and helping them articulate their needs and wants, we can truly facilitate the transition from a situation that is not quite working anymore, whether to our community or elsewhere. In the event that one of these amazing people decides to call Berwick their home, we are then able to welcome them in a way that says, “This is home.” 

Staff

Medical and other support staff
Registered Nurses
Registered Practical Nurses
Personal Support Workers
Doctoron call
Foot care specialistvisiting 1x/month
Physiotherapiston call

Care services

Care options available:

  • Guest stays available (cost from $125)
  • Respite care available (cost from $250)
  • Convalescent care
  • Palliative care available

Health Services:

  • Catheter care(with special assistance)
  • Ostomy care(with special assistance)
  • Oxygen assistance(with special assistance)
  • Physically challenged residents(with special assistance)
  • Vitals monitoring(with special assistance)

Move-in requirements

• Personal Interview

COVID-19 Information

Berwick is absolutely committed to the safety of all residents and employees and monitors the COVID-19 situation with vigilance. We have taken the necessary steps to ensure our entire team is well-trained and has been proactively implementing provincial government health-and-safety protocols, while also providing both health and social supports to the residents and employees of Berwick. To keep our communities COVID-19 free, no stone has been left unturned. We have multiple layers of safety protocols and infrastructure in place to protect seniors and employees including enhanced and increased sanitization stations, mandatory face masks for employees, active pre-screening for visitors, amenities retrofitted with plexiglass barriers where appropriate. Berwick remains committed to creating safe, vibrant, independent, and healthy communities for residents.

Currently accepting move-ins. Request suite details.

News

Recent News

Make 2023 a Purposeful and Active Year

Leading a life with purpose and intention can make you feel more fulfilled, happier and positive. ... read more.

Test Drive the Lifestyle - Short Term Stays at Berwick

We have been offering Berwick Short Term stays at some of our communities on Vancouver Island, so that people can get a feel for what it's really like living at a Berwick. ... read more.

Don’t Wait to Downsize – Preparing for a move to Independent Living

After you have decided where to move, you may need to downsize your belongings for your new space, depending upon the home you are coming from. ... read more.

Accreditation & Associations

Social Feed

Neighbourhood

Neighbourhood

When you choose to live at Berwick House your home is in the heart of a beautiful neighbourhood. Access to banking, shops and services is just a short walk away and public transit at our front door provides convenient, regular access to the public library, Gordon Head Recreation Centre, University Heights Shopping Centre and neighbourhood parks and churches. Whether you decide to walk, ride or take advantage of our Berwick About Town (BAT) Mobile car service, you will be within easy reach of all the shops and services you want and enjoy.

Berwick House is located at 4062 Shelbourne Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8N 3E6.


What's nearby:

Gordon Head Recreation Centre
Lambrick Park Church
Tuscany Village
Mt. Douglas Park
LifeLabs Medical Laboratory Services
Greater Victoria Public Library - Nellie McClung Branch
Royal Jubilee Hospital

Compare Berwick House with nearby communities

Compare with Lifestyle options Location Distance
Berwick Royal OakIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term CareVictoria, British Columbia 5.01km
Tapestry at Victoria HarbourIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term CareVictoria, British Columbia 6.65km
The CamelotIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term CareVictoria, British Columbia 6.92km
Wedgwood HouseIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term CareDuncan, British Columbia 43.62km
Sherwood HouseIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Long-term CareDuncan, British Columbia 43.71km

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THE COMFORT LIFE REPORT:
Berwick House

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