Councillors, officers and stakeholders gathered today (10 April) to celebrate the £2.3 million investment in Eskdale House Residential Care Home, Longtown. The official opening event showcased the features of the recently refurbished care home, with works focussing on dementia care and sustainability.
Councillor Carni McCarron-Holmes, Cumberland Council Chair, and Councillor Lisa Brown, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Adults and Community Health said a few words as part of the event. They thanked all involved and celebrated the improvements in facilities, accessibility, and sustainability, emphasising a commitment to compassionate care and independence for residents, and reaffirmed Cumberland Council’s dedication to innovation and inclusivity in care provision.
Following speeches and a ribbon cutting guests were invited to take tours of the building to observe the new and improved space and features.
The refurbishment of a 21-bed care home includes various upgrades and improvements. These encompass enhancements to bathrooms, such as new rise and fall baths and improved ensuite facilities, as well as more spacious bedrooms and a complete redecoration of the property. Additionally, laundry and kitchen facilities have been redesigned to support infection control measures. Staff welfare facilities have seen significant changes, including the addition of a staff shower room, changing area, and a dedicated break room. Outside, extensive development has taken place, including 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. The refurbishment also involved installing new boilers, increasing insulation, and implementing LED lighting to improve thermal efficiencies and reduce energy consumption.
Care home residents will soon 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;
“We're thrilled to unveil the newly refurbished Eskdale House. This project reflects Cumberland Council's commitment to modernising care facilities. With £2.3 million invested, Eskdale House now offers excellent dementia care in a safe and accessible environment. The redesigned spaces promote socialisation and independence for residents, while also supporting our dedicated staff in delivering high-quality care.”
Councillor Carni McCarron-Holmes, Cumberland Council Chair, said;
“This renovation highlights Cumberland Council's dedication to enhancing care facilities. Eskdale House will now provide exceptional dementia care in a welcoming and accessible setting. These updates prioritise resident wellbeing and independence while also fostering a supportive environment for our hardworking staff. It was wonderful to celebrate this milestone and the positive changes it brings to our community.”
