As some sort of normality starts again for society, the effects of the pandemic are going to be felt for many years. The loneliness and isolation that has been experienced by many needs to be tackled to ensure our most vulnerable always feel supported and connected to society.
As a charitable trust, supporting older people in their local community is at the very cornerstone of Bradbury House’s ethos. The home, a member of the Abbeyfield Society, was created to give local people more choice with their care. After the devastating effects of Covid, we are fundraising to expand our on-site Activity Centre.
The centre was built in 2007 and provides daily activities including cooking, crafts, film afternoons, talks from visitors, music activities and exercise. The varied programme is currently open to all 41 residents of Bradbury House, as well as five day-care visitors.
With the expansion of this centre, the day-care provision will be more than doubled – something that the local community is in desperate need of. Local GP, Dr Matthew Robinson says: “Such day care is an incredibly important resource for our local population. Even before the Covid-19 pandemic we recognised that loneliness and isolation were a major burden on our elderly patients and one of the key determinants of ill health. These problems have intensified over the last 12 months.”
The expanded and renovated centre will give support, companionship and stimulation for local people, who want to remain in their own home, but avoid the feelings of loneliness that this can bring. Feeling part of a community and having regular companionship has been shown to improve the quality of life of older people immensely.
Bradbury House is passionate about providing this facility. Chairman of Trustees, Rod Marsden, explains: “It has been a particularly challenging year for care homes and our residents. We understand like never before just how important our care is. By upgrading our provision significantly we will be able to give the best possible support to both our residents, and day care visitors. This will offer choice for local residents and their families.”
The remodelled Activity Centre will include a snug, a conservatory, a hairdressing salon and spa area, which can also be used for physiotherapy.
Developing such an exciting facility will be costly, with around £1.5m needed to deliver the expansion.The main proportion of the costs of the project will be funded internally but we are also seeking external support in order to achieve our vision. A fundraising team has been assembled and there will be various events held over the next few months. Bradbury House is also reaching out to the local community to ask for support. Donations are hugely appreciated – please contact us to make a donation. Thank you.