Cash Boost For Council Care Homes

Old people’s care homes in York are set to benefit from nearly £250,000 in improvements. City of York Council has been awarded £220,000 in Government funding for 2007/08, to spend on improvements that will enhance the physical environment of registered care homes for older people.

The funding has come from the Department of Health (DoH), and has been provided to the council as part of a Dignity In Care initiative. It is aimed at ensuring that all older people using health and social care services are treated with dignity. About three-quarters of the money will be spent on privately-owned care homes, while the remainder will be invested in the council’s own care homes.

This will see bathrooms, dining areas and lounges upgraded, as well as the refurbishment of toilet blocks, the addition of conservatories and improvements to garden areas. More than 600 older people across the city will benefit from the improvements being carried out.

Bill Hodson, director of housing and adult social services at the council, said: “It’s vital that the quality of care is of the highest standard. This funding will help care providers in York to increase privacy for residents and improve their quality of life by enhancing their surroundings.”

Sue Galloway, who was the council’s executive member for adult social services until the May 3 election, said: “As a council we recognise the important role that the independent sector plays in providing care for York residents. It is crucial that care is carried out in modern, safe and pleasant environments and that a caring and homely atmosphere is created.

“Partnership working with the independent sector is one way of achieving this, and I am pleased that we have all worked together to ensure that this welcome grant is used to enhance facilities for the benefit of all York residents.”

The council’s new ruling executive is set to be announced on Thursday. At present there is no executive.