New state of the art care home opens in Peacehaven

A MULTI million pound care home providing modern independent living to elderly was officially opened in Peacehaven. Downlands Court was completed in September 2009 when residents started moving into the state of the art development.

The £6.4m funding for the Extra Care Centre came from Saxon Weald Housing Association, the Department of Health and East Sussex County Council’s adult social care department.

Saxon Weald chairman David Avery welcomed the guests to the grand opening which included residents, carers and staff.

He said: “This is a truly impressive building.

“The individual flats are well-designed and spacious while the facilities and care available are outstanding.

“Anyone who wants to live independently, but know that help is on hand, will be queuing up to live here, I’m sure.”

Jeremy Porteus, from the Department of Health said Downlands Court was of real benefit to housing and social care and would build links with the local community.

It has 41 flats for people aged over 60. They are a mix of one and two-bedroom properties, some rented from Saxon Weald and others privately owned on a shared basis.

Each resident has the privacy of their own flat but can get involved in social activities.

There is a 24 hour care team on site, an emergency alarm system and a secure courtyard garden.

The scheme in Roundhay Avenue has a restaurant, hairdresser and a complementary therapist.

Facilities are regularly used for meetings by local stroke and falls prevention groups.

The official opening was held on Friday April 16.