Works to renovate Eskdale House Residential Care Home in Longtown are now complete. Cumberland Council has invested £2.3 million in refurbishments, focusing on dementia care and sustainability.
The refurbishment of the 21-bed care home incorporates bathroom improvements, new rise and fall baths, additional and enhanced ensuite facilities, more spacious bedrooms, and a full redecoration of the entire property.
Laundry and kitchen facilities have also been redesigned to support excellent infection control. There have been significant changes to staff welfare facilities, including a staff shower room, changing area, and a dedicated break room.
The outside space has undergone extensive development, with the installation of new access ramps, balustrades, raised flower beds, and the relocation of the oil tank to create level access to the garden area.
Works included the instillation of new boilers, increased insulation, and LED lighting. These features will contribute to thermal efficiencies and reduced energy consumption.
The project team are hosting an official opening event on Wednesday 10 April to showcase the fantastic renovation with key stakeholders and dignitaries. Following the event, care home residents will be moved into the home through a phased and managed approach.
Cumberland Council enlisted the services of local contractor, Thomas Armstrong, to carry out some of the works and collaborate with residents and staff in the design plans.
Councillor Lisa Brown, Cumberland Council Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Adults and Community Health, said;
“The newly renovated Eskdale House showcases Cumberland Council’s commitment to investing in modern, state-of-the-art care facilities.
“Projects like this help us to address the growing need for specialist dementia care. Following the £2.3 million refurbishment, Eskdale House will now provide a fantastic high-quality care environment for our residents.
“The works have created a home that is easy to access for all, including those with physical disabilities and dementia. The safe and accessible outside space will benefit residents’ health and wellbeing and help them to live as independently as possible.
“The spacious dining, lounging, and living facilities will provide the perfect setting for socialising and group activities, whilst the level access will allow those with limited mobility to maintain independence.
“The changes to Eskdale House will not only benefit residents but will also provide a more supportive working environment for our staff, reflecting the long and unsociable hours they work and in turn supporting the delivery of high-quality care.”
Image shows Nick Hewetson-Jones, Eskdale House Registered Manager, with Councillor Lisa Brown, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Adults and Community Health at Eskdale House.
