Cedar Court celebrates its fourth year as residential scheme

Cedar Court celebrates its fourth year as residential scheme

10 August 2016

DOWNPATRICK’S Cedar Court supported housing scheme celebrates its fourth anniversary this month and has been hailed a major success.

The three-storey Bridge Street development provides apartments for the frail elderly and those living with dementia related illnesses who are over 65, with all tenants able to enjoy independent living within a unique, homely atmosphere.

Managed and staffed by the South Eastern Trust, the facility opened in August 2012 and was developed in partnership with Choice Housing. There are 24 apartments, each with a living room, kitchen, one or two bedrooms and bathroom, all equipped with technology to enable people to live independently and provide help in an instant if they require it. 

Highly trained staff are on duty at all times, with the level of support tailored to the needs of the tenant, and there 

are currently four vacancies at the Downpatrick complex, with two apartments available for people diagnosed with dementia and two others for the frail elderly.

Cedar Court manager, Mark Baker, said the purpose built facility has been a fantastic success since it opened, with staff continually receiving positive feedback from tenants and their relatives.

“The facility provides a new model of care which has been very successful. Everyone is delighted with the complex and the staff and the tenants are very happy here. They can be independent or join their neighbours in communal areas when they get together for tea, coffee and a chat,” he explained.

“Traditional residential care has fallen in demand over recent years and this is a model of care which fits in with the modern age and what people want. Indeed, older people themselves have expressed a need for this kind of facility. Here they can have their own front door, their own furniture and, most importantly, independence.”

Mark said Cedar Court focuses on providing person centred care, with staff working to engender a “spirit of community,” with tenants regularly gathering in the common room which also hosts formal events.

He continued: ‘We also arrange to take the tenants out and last week we took them furniture shopping in Crossgar and then it was over to Ardglass to buy some fresh fish. In addition, Downpatrick Lions Club has decided to hold its monthly pensioners’ meeting in Cedar Court from next month.

“Our tenants are also regular visitors to events at the Down Arts Centre where the staff are very accommodating and we are continuing to try and forge community links with groups and organisations in the area.”

Mark believes a key success of Cedar Court has been that tenants retain their independence, explaining that if their needs change, the care and support they require changes with them. He said the South Eastern Trust is committed to responding to tenants’ needs.

“People like their independence and this is the ideal facility for that. There is the discreet 

use of assisted technology, alarms and sensors which alert staff to potential problems in apartments, while people have their own personal alarms which they can use to alert 

staff if something is wrong,” he continued.

Ray Stubbington, the longest tenant at Cedar Court, said when people first come to the facility they may understandably feel a little apprehensive and unsure of themselves, but he explained that soon passes.

“This is a wonderful facility. The place is warm and welcoming, the staff are excellent and it is a real home from home. People are happy here and there is a real homely atmosphere,” he continued.

“This is my home and I could not be happier. You have your own apartment, retain your independence and can join with other tenants to have a chat and a coffee. Being able to interact with people who are your neighbours is important.”

Mr Stubbington added: “I can’t speak highly enough of Cedar Court. It is a marvellous facility and the staff are superb. We are located close to the town centres so those of us with mobility scooters can get out and about. I am very happy here and would encourage anyone thinking about applying for the vacant apartments not to hesitate — you retain your independence while living in a fantastic facility.” 

For further information about current vacancies contact Choice Housing or Cedar Court manager Mark Baker, telephone 07872 422380.