Big plans to revamp building by care charity
the appeal.
The charity hopes to raise £518,255 to upgrade the building. With almost £30,000 raised to date, the first phase has just been completed, providing a bright, modern kitchen area, complete with an adustable height cooker which can be used by wheelchair users.
A temporary kitchen which was installed during the work is now also being retained as it proved a hit with service users. With staff very aware of how easy it can be for those being cared for to lose life skills when they are aware they have support around them, seeing them encouraged to make a cup of tea or complete other tasks has been 110518 HOME_04 a pleasing bonus.
Respite and day care centre manager Catherine Jones said: “The centre is a stepping stone for the individuals we support, either to a permanent place in the residential home or transitioning into their own community.
“Our staff team provide the unique care they need in order to provide the best outcome for the individual.
“Outwith meal times there is assistance with personal care for those who can’t manage it.”
As well as enjoying seeing the improvements, services users are also enjoying the process, said Catherine.
“They love the banter with the contractors,” she added.
The extensive upgrade plans include structural alterations, roof structure repairs, replacement of windows, installation of six ensuite bathrooms, new internal walls and partitions, a new heating system, an operational sluice, new wall and floor furnishings, decoration, and electrical installations.
William Simpson’s operations manager Zoe Nolan admits that alcohol-related issues don’t always attract empathy when it comes to fundraising and still have a certain stigma.
She believes, however, it is an issue which, albeit privately, many people relate to, either personally or through friends and family, and the increasing focus on mental health issues is helping to increase understanding.
“People are bit wiser now to the fact that it could happen to any one of us,” said Zoe. “Alcoholism is normally a result of some sort of mental health problem and it can be a case of ‘there but for the grace of God go I’.
“Also, while most people know that alcohol issues can result in liver damage, there are many other effects including mental health and neurological impact.”
Environment and surroundings can play an enormous role in a person’s wellbeing, and that awareness is very much a driver for the refurbishment appeal.
“We want to make it as interesting a place as possible. No one wants to go into care, whether that’s respite or day care, so we want to make this a place people still want to come to.
“This is still a beautiful building with a lot of history so we will be doing our best not to hurt the integrity of that and keep the character.”
To find out about making a donation to the appeal telephone (01786) 812421 or email: info@williamsimpsons.org.uk