Ernest Bailey Nursery and Unit for Disabled Children, Matlock

The history of the Home can be separated into two stages: Ernest Bailey Residential Nursery (1948-1972) and Ernest Bailey Nursery and Unit for Disabled Children (1972-c1979).

In 1948 the existing Matlock Home was adapted to accomodate babies and toddlers and reopened as Ernest Bailey Residential Nursery. The new Nursery was funded and equipped by Trustees of the late Mr Ernest Bailey, a founder of the Home. The Bishop of Derby dedicated the Nursery as well as a plaque in memory of Mr Bailey.

In 1957 there were 24 children at the Matlock Home, the youngest being two months old and the eldest five years old. Infants would have their own nurseries and the older children would live within their own 'family' with own nurses and night nursery. In 1968 a number of Garden Parties and Village Fêtes were held at the Matlock Home. Students from the local college ran side-shows and also designed posters and leaflets for the event. In 1969 a staff bungalow was added to the Home to house the House sister and the staff nurses.

A unit for physical disabled children up to seven years old opened in 1972. In 1978 the children were organised into family groups to help with individual development and permit children to be given activities appropriate for them. From around 1979 the Home began accommodating physically disabled children on a long stay basis. At this point the Home effectively ceased to be a residential care home.