A respite centre in Newcastle-under-Lyme has reopened under a new name after undergoing a £1.5 million refurbishment.
Willow Brook Respite Centre, formerly the Douglas Road Respite Centre, is run by Staffordshire County Council and provides care for adults with learning disabilities and complex health needs.
It offers families a break from their caring role so they can plan holidays and activities to support their health and wellbeing.
Over the last 18 months, the centre has undergone a transformative refurbishment to modernise all the facilities and make it more accessible for all guests so they can feel at home during their stay.
The centre now has eight fully accessible bedrooms – including six with ensuite bathrooms – a wheelchair accessible lift and a new conservatory, giving wheelchair access to the garden. A self-contained flat has also been added to support guests to practice daily living skills and develop their independence.
The improvements will help ensure Willow Brook can continue to meet the needs of people using the service.
Yvonne Sampey is a full-time carer for her son, who is autistic, has complex learning disabilities and is mostly non-verbal. He has been using the respite centre for 11 years and Yvonne says it is "a home away from home" for him.
Yvonne said:
"Without this service, we would not be able to continue supporting him at home. We had a look around the building last week and we were amazed at the transformation.
"We especially like the new addition of the self-contained flat, which our son has stayed in now a few times. This has made a huge difference to him, and his anxiety levels have reduced as a result. The new conservatory is also amazing, and I'm sure that everyone will enjoy using this welcoming space."
Willow Brook Respite Centre was relaunched at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday 6 August. The new name was suggested by a member of staff and inspired by the nature-themed design of the renovated bedrooms.
Guest, Gary Serrell, cut the ribbon and a plaque was also unveiled to commemorate the day.
Martin Rogerson, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Care, said:
"Respite can be a lifeline for hundreds of carers across Staffordshire, giving them the opportunity to rest, spend time with family and recharge while knowing their loved one is receiving the best possible care.
"That's why we've invested in Willow Brook Respite Centre, creating a modern, accessible environment that's designed around the people who use it. These improvements will help ensure residents receive high-quality care, while giving carers the peace of mind to take time for their own wellbeing."
