Since the start of the pandemic, it has become increasingly clear that older people in our community need more support. There have been numerous reports of the increase in loneliness that many older people are feeling. At Bradbury House we addressing this issue with our ambitious building project that will increase day care provision in Beaconsfield, as well as improve the lives of our residents. We are delighted to announce that, with the support of the Abbeyfield Society, we have been awarded a generous grant from the Wolfson Foundation.
The Wolfson Foundation is an independent charity with a focus on research and education. Its aim is to support civil society by investing in excellent projects in science, health, heritage, humanities and the arts. Since it was established in 1955, some £1 billion (£2 billion in real terms) has been awarded to more than 12,000 projects throughout the UK, all on the basis of expert review.
We feel hugely grateful to have received the grant of £40,000, which was awarded at the end of January. This will be helping with the significant cost of the remodelling and refurbishment of the Activity Centre. If you’ve visited any time recently, you are surely aware of the renovation being undertaken. We are creating a larger activity room and a new snug area to host more intimate group activities. Additionally, there will be a larger hairdressing and therapy room, a new office and a kitchen. Externally, wheelchair accessible decking will be created for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities, lunch, or just relax and socialise in the gardens. The car park will be extended to allow the safe arrival of more day-care visitors. 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 isolation that this can bring.
Chairman of Trustees, Rod Marsden, is excited: “It has been a particularly challenging time 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 and we are extremely grateful to the Wolfson Foundation for providing us with their valuable support.”
With luck and a following wind we are hoping to reach completion in Spring 2022.