DHSS will provide improved environment for EMI Unit
Isle of Man News, 15 February 2010 – Social Services are looking at how it might provide a better environment for the care and support of older people with mental health problems. Residents of the North of the Island currently use an Elderly Mentally Infirm (EMI) facility in an old ward of Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, but modern standards of practice dictates that people with long-term care needs should be in a facility that, as far as possible, resembles home life. Accordingly, the Department is planning to build a brand new facility in the North of the Island with separate bedrooms and en-suite facilities in the near future, subject to Tynwald approval. In order that, whilst the brand new EMI Unit is awaited, current service users can have the best possible environment and quality of life, the Department has explored the option of using the extra space within the purpose built EMI unit at Farmhill, Douglas.
Having explored the feasibility of this option and the practicalities of such a move and consulted with staff, residents and their relatives, the Department realises that whilst the move is not the preferred option for everyone, it will be going ahead as it is necessary to fulfil its duty to provide the best possible care. This move is partially accelerated by a recent independent external report indicating that the current unit is not “fit for purpose” for vulnerable people with mental health problems.
In order to make the move as smooth as possible, give time for residents and their relatives to prepare, and for logistical practicalities to be sorted out, there will be a 3-month preparation time with an anticipated move at the beginning of May 2010.
Mr Malarkey, MHK, Political Member for Social Services said, “I am pleased we are able to ensure those in our care to have the best possible environment in which to live. I know those who currently live and work at Thie Meanagh consider it a very pleasant, comfortable and homely place to be.”
Andrew Swithinbank, Director of Social Services, said “We have vigorously pursued the need for a suitable modern specially designed and purpose built facility for those with mental health problems who require our care and support in later life. We are pleased that the proposal is moving forward for just such a service in Ramsey and that this temporary relocation will also provide top quality accommodation in the meantime. We thank the residents at Gardner House, their relatives and our skilled and dedicated staff for their patience whilst the plans are put in place.”
The Minster for Health and Social Security, Hon. W. E. Teare, MHK has recently met with the League of Friends and hopes to meet them again in the coming months to discuss the future use for Gardener House.
Related posts:
- Stimulating the senses helps older people to cope with and recover from mental illness
- The Department of Social Care accelerates plans for new Elderly Unit in Ramsey
- New appointment to the post of Specialist in Mental Health Promotion
- Creativity Day for Mental Health
- DHSS Residential Care Fee Annual Increase for the financial year 2010/11
