Support for people with dementia in North Ayrshire has received a boost after the Anam Cara respite centre in Kilbirnie re-opened following an extensive refurbishment project.
The specialist dementia respite centre will accommodate up to 9 guests aged 60 years or over, offering critical respite services within single room, en suite accommodation.
The support service, which is run by North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, had been temporarily relocated to the vacant Taigh Mor site in Beith to allow the service to continue while works were carried out at Anam Cara.
The service received a ‘very good’ rating from the Care Inspectorate after an unannounced visit in February 2023, with the report commending its quality of care and the team’s fantastic work in relocating and continuing this vital community support service under challenging circumstances.
The refurbishment project included a complete transformation of the main garden area, including new garden furniture, with a ramp installed from the conservatory to allow better access for guests to enjoy the outdoors.
The importance of this service for those living with dementia cannot be overestimated. Anam Cara’s newly refurbished facilities ensure:
- Residents with dementia can access to respite stays in a bright, comfortable and modern home-from-home environment;
- A place to allow families and carers the opportunity to take a break from their caring responsibilities;
- Residents will be well looked after by the facility’s specially-trained staff.
An additional, smaller garden area adjacent to the dining area has also had some landscaping improvements made.
A full revamp of the internal areas of the building has also been carried out, with works including wet wall installation in several of the bathrooms, replacement light fittings with energy-efficient LED bulbs and a full upgrade to the reception area.
An archway has been created within the lounge and dining area to improve the space, allow better access to the outdoors and create an improved flow for staff moving around the area, and a new boiler and generator have been installed.
New flooring has been installed throughout the ground level, with new décor, furniture and soft furnishings creating a welcoming and homely feel for guests and staff. In addition, new TVs have been located in each room and WiFi connection has been improved throughout the building.
Externally, the building has undergone repairs to the roof, fascias, gutters and roughcast, with new windows in the dining room area.
Artworks for the walls of Anam Cara were very kindly donated by members of both Beith and Irvine camera clubs, featuring recognisable images taken throughout North Ayrshire to help stimulate memories and talking points for guests staying at the facility.
Stay up to date with the latest news from our Health and Social Care Partnership on their website: News Archive (nahscp.org)