23/02/10 - Duke’s welcomed at care home opening

Chestnut Court, a £6 million dementia facility, which has taken two years to build by award winning contractor, Thomas Vale Construction has now been officially opened. Tony Hyde, Managing Director of Thomas Vale Construction commented: “We have thoroughly enjoyed working in partnership with The Orders of St Johns Care Trust, Gloucester County Council and all the dedicated staff and residents of Chestnut Court. We are delighted to be providing new modern homes for the elderly and specialist homes for residents with dementia.” The Duke of Gloucester spoke to staff and residents whilst viewing the new care home.

The 80-bed care facility provides nursing care and a specialist dementia unit, which is run by The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council and Gloucestershire Care Partnership (GCP). Speaking at the ceremony, Sir Nicholas Mander, chairman of GCP and trustee of OSJCT, said: “This new development is part of an ambitious programme to develop facilities that meet the current and future requirements for the care of older people and I’m sure that Chestnut Court will be a great asset to the local community.” The design of the new home has been based on the principles of providing plenty of space and the ability to use modern care aids and equipment which has been arranged into four care suites. Each suite has its own communal lounge, dining room and assisted bathing facilities. The 80 spacious resident bedrooms all have en suite bathrooms with wash and hand basins, level access showers and toilets. Tracey Nurding, care home manager at the court, said: “It has been a very busy two years, and I am extremely proud of the new team here at Chestnut Court. “The new dementia wing has been designed to facilitate a higher degree of independence for those suffering with dementia, by providing light guidance technology in each room, more signs and secure sensory gardens.” Other facilities include a bar shop and beauty salon close to the entrance foyer and a large residents lounge at first floor level providing a focal meeting point to the home.