THE WESTBURY and District League of Friends will continue to fund a respite bed at Westbury Care Home in 2010.
The League of Friends has been funding the bed for many years now, which currently costs £30,200 a year to provide.
Although the League of Friends has found fundraising challenging since the closure of hospital beds in Westbury in 2006, it has pledged to continue to fund the respite bed as long as funds are available.
Vice-chair Erica Watson said, “It’s a huge undertaking. The dedicated room at the Bupa Home, for patients registered with the Westbury Group Practice, offers carers a much needed break and their loved ones can be sure of excellent care in a stimulating and caring setting. We’re very grateful for the support from the community, the generosity of people is amazing.”
The respite bed allows carers to take vital breaks secure in the knowledge that their charges will be well cared for during their rest. Getting a day or two to rest can often be essential for carers, who often find themselves looking after someone for 24 hours a day.
This year the occupancy levels for the bed have averaged 85 percent, showing that there is a strong demand for the respite in Westbury.
Westbury Care Home manager Elissa Beaven said, “It’s a pleasure to support the League of Friends. It’s important that carers, who are often overlooked, get a well earned rest, and the bed is an important link to the community.
“I would urge any carers who would like to make use of the bed to call me directly on 01373 825 868.”
As well as the respite bead, the League of Friends provides funds for Alzheimers patients’ care and a nursing agency, amongst other causes.
Erica said, “We are keen to continue to fundraise for things like chiropody and X-rays, and would ask anyone who is interested to get involved.”
The League of Friends has been going for more than 50 years, and has raised more than one million pounds for local healthcare during that time.
Erica added, “We would be unable to continue to support any of the above essential services without the generosity of the Westbury community and we would like to take this opportunity of thanking all those who have donated in the past and wish all the community a very Happy Christmas and a healthy 2010.”
The League of Friends is holding a quiz night on Sunday 21st March at the Hollies, more information to follow.
