EDHA receives royal seal of approval

East Dorset Housing Association (EDHA) has received the Royal seal of approval.

The Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, officially opened the state-of-the-art care facilities at Jumpers Road in Christchurch.

The multi-million pound development was built in partnership between Dorset County Council, EDHA, Macmillan Cancer Trust, NHS Dorset, Christchurch Borough Council and building contractors Rok.

Jumpers Road provides a variety of modern care services for older people and people with learning disabilities.

Among the facilities on site is Bure House, an extra care sheltered housing scheme owned and managed by EDHA, part of the Synergy Housing Group.

The scheme provides accommodation for frail older residents and for people with disabilities.

EDHA managing director Nick Fry said: "Bure House provides much needed affordable housing for older people living in Christchurch.

"It also provides care on a flexible basis and means that people can continue living in their own home as their care needs change."

The complex also includes Avon View, an 80-bed care home with nursing for older people, with specialist facilities to meet the needs of frail older people. An intermediate care unit also provides short term rehabilitative care for people being discharged from hospital.

Residents and family will be able to take advantage of the landscaped gardens, which include a variety of water features and areas which are particularly suitable for those with sensory loss.

A new day centre will replace the Juniper Centre, accommodating 50 service users with learning disabilities. The building has been designed to meet the needs of people with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

A variety of activities such as cooking and grounds maintenance will be on offer to encourage independence. Service users will be able to take part in themed days and community-based activities, such as conservation work at Avon Heath Country Park. Above the Juniper Centre is located the new social services local office for Christchurch.

Andrew Cattaway, cabinet member for adult social care at Dorset County Council added: "These facilities will provide a variety of top quality care services and activities, giving people greater choice and encouraging independence.

"This is another good example of partnership working which is bringing real benefits to the residents of the Christchurch area.”
The prince opened all three buildings before chatting with staff and service users.

Earlier he visited Poole’s new multi-million-pound fire station, Poole Old Town First School and Nursery and Waterman’s Park in Somerford.