Energy-saving lights mean a brighter home

The house is run by our manager, Heather Dixon, and deputy manager, Suzanne Robba, who have a team of senior carers, carers, kitchen staff, housekeepers, maintenance, volunteers and an activities coordinator to assist in the smooth running of the home. A committee of volunteers manages the home and they bring a variety of skills to make sure we are providing the best care and environment for our residents.

Bryan Ellis joined the committee in October 2015 and one of his roles is to look at sources of funding and assistance from local and national businesses and organisations. He identified that Screwfix, which has a branch in Alnwick, supports projects through the Screwfix Foundation, a registered charity set up in 2013, whose purpose is raising funds for projects that will fix, repair, maintain and improve properties and community facilities for those in need throughout the UK.

Another committee member, Brian Friend, obtained costs for LED lighting, which would meet our aim of providing excellent lighting for our residents to move around the home safely while being the most energy-efficient. The grant application went in and we were awarded just over £1,000 which covered the cost of the new light fittings, bulbs and installation. The work was carried out by Pickard Electricals last month and the feedback from staff and residents has been that the new lights are making a big difference.