The former Glenside Resource Centre is to be demolished as part of a plan to make way for a range of new accommodation for older people. The decision comes after careful examination by the Department of Health and Social Care of the various development options for the site. Any future development will be subject to Treasury and Tynwald approval.
Member for Adult Services, David Quirk MHK, said:
'The Department has taken a proactive approach to the redevelopment of the Glenside site. Government has worked to ensure our future plans reflect the needs of our much valued older population, whilst ensuring value for money for the taxpayer. In the near future Adult Services will be coming forward with detailed proposals for the redevelopment of the site which will set out more coherently the long term plan for the use of this land.'
The resource centre, which provided residential services for older people, closed in 2013 as it was no longer fit for purpose or compliant with regulations that govern the quality of such facilities. The move was part of an ongoing programme to rebalance social care services for adults to ensure that:
- Services are targeted at those in greatest need
- Best use is made of available resources
- Investment is targeted at early intervention and prevention where possible and appropriate
The rebalancing programme, which started in 2012, is a positive and proactive approach to modernising care for adults to help them to be as independent as possible. Adult services range from residential care for older to people, to supporting those with learning disabilities, to supporting those who may require support because of ill-health or a family situation.
The financial pressure Government faces means that it is vitally important to achieve value for money in commissioning and delivering services. However the changing needs and aspirations of those who use social care services must sit at the centre of this process. For older people, this means working to support them to live independently in their own homes wherever possible.
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said:
“Glenside Resource Centre served the community well for forty years. However, we must recognise that needs and aspirations change and look to the future. The Department will work with Treasury to develop plans for facilities that can meet the needs of the community for the next forty years and potentially beyond.”
