Calderdale Council has converted the former Westgarth Children’s Home in Elland to provide a new, modern site for the Council’s recreational care and short break service, which has moved from the old Glenholme building in West Vale.
Since the fully refurbished Westgarth opened its doors in January 2022, 24 adults with learning disabilities have benefited from the new accommodation, giving them and their carers a welcome break.
Calderdale Mayor Coun Angie Gallagher officially opened the new facility on Friday June 10th. The mayor and other guests guided us through the building and the gardens. They were impressed with the quality of the remodel and the state of the art features that help people enjoy their stay and build their independence. One participant who stayed at the center said it was “extraordinarily good,” and other residents, family members, carers and staff were equally enthusiastic. Attendees also enjoyed a three-tiered anniversary cake baked and decorated by Westgarth’s manager, Nigel Brown, to mark the official opening.
The new facility features quality, accessible accommodation and en-suite bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, living and dining area, staff office space and self-contained living units to help people maintain their independence and develop the skills they need lead a full and active life. The garden area has also been upgraded with new landscaping, seating areas and a vegetable patch for guests to help with gardening.
The Council appoints St Anne’s Community Services to provide respite care and respite care service. St. Anne’s offers person-centred support that incorporates the values of respect and openness, understanding and engagement. Activities on offer include baking, games, arts and crafts, movie nights, outdoor activities, and trips to restaurants, parks, shops, and community events.
One of Westgarth’s service users said: “I really like Westgarth’s new building, it is light and modern and the bedroom is spacious with good facilities and a balcony overlooking the beautiful garden.
“I like using the art room as I enjoy crafting and crafting and I especially like the cozy lounge where I can relax and do my puzzle books. Westgarth has good facilities that help me with my independence like the kitchen as I enjoy baking and preparing my meals.”
Coun Josh Fenton-Glynn, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Wellbeing said: “I am proud to open a new facility that makes the most of our resources to support residents and carers. Many people are happier in their homes, but in order for us to support that, we need to make sure we can provide their families with short breaks and support when they need it. Recreational breaks along with day shifts are key to doing this longer and we have updated Westgarth to have what people need.”
Azra Kirkby, Chief Executive Officer of St Anne’s Community Services, said: “We pride ourselves on providing leading person-centred care and putting the needs of the people we serve at the center of everything we do.
“We are very proud to be able to work with Calderdale Council to deliver the Westgarth service.
“Westgarth has been planned with customers’ needs in mind, with excellent accessible accommodation and facilities. These facilities, in which Calderdale Council has invested, align very well with our care and support ethos of constantly adapting to the needs of service users.
“We are proud that Westgarth will allow all customers to thrive and enjoy many of the great local community facilities, which will continue to support the people who remain in the service.”