Our preferred option for Biggleswade Day Centre for Older People
Consultation closed: Friday, 15 July 2022
Consultation opened: Tuesday, 19 April 2022
Having considered these options for the future of Biggleswade Day Centre, our preferred option at this stage is to move the existing customers to a space at Sorrel Gardens. We would then close Biggleswade Day Centre. This is our current preferred option because:
Improved quality of facilities/services
It would enable existing customers to access more modern facilities and a comfortable environment designed to dementia-friendly standards, whilst still meeting their care and support needs. Facilities would be integrated within the independent living community, therefore encouraging the growth of friendship networks and preventing isolation.
Minimal disruption for existing customers
Any change in day services would mean some disruption for customers. However, the whole customer group would be able to stay together, and we hope they would be supported by the same staff that they are now. An experienced transitions team, which includes a dedicated social worker, would be on-hand to support customers during the process.
Value for money
Moving to an appropriately sized space at Sorrel Gardens and closing Biggleswade Day Centre would mean the building running costs, such as repairs, maintenance and utilities would be reduced. By co-locating both the independent living scheme and the day centre, it is anticipated that both services can run more efficiently and effectively. This would represent better value for money to us and tax payers in Central Bedfordshire than the existing arrangements.
Key components and principles of the enhanced day offer
The new centre would offer an improved setting in which to meet current and future care and support needs of our customers and can be designed with customer needs in mind. It opens up the opportunity to maintain friendships and increase levels of social interaction and the physical and mental wellbeing of customers and the independent living scheme residents.