A Warkworth care home hoping to give residents more opportunities to enjoy seaside trips, family celebrations and days out has welcomed its local MP as part of a £25,000 minibus appeal.

David Smith, MP for North Northumberland, was invited to come along to The Grange Nursing Home on Watershaugh Road to hear about its campaign for a wheelchair-accessible minibus and the wider challenges facing social care.

He toured the home and spent time meeting residents, relatives and staff before joining them for afternoon tea, with homemade scones and cakes.

The Grange supports older people with nursing and personal care needs, including people living with dementia and reduced mobility.

David Smith, MP for North Northumberland, with members of The Grange Nursing Home team.

placeholder image — David Smith, MP for North Northumberland, with members of The Grange Nursing Home team.

Its minibus appeal aims to make outings easier to arrange and give residents more opportunities to remain part of the community around them.

Trish McNeill, activities co-ordinator, said: “We have so many ideas for outings based on our residents’ interests.

“A wheelchair-accessible minibus would help us bring those plans to life and give more residents the chance to join in.”

The Grange is now inviting local businesses, community groups and individuals to help move the minibus appeal forward through donations, sponsorship or fundraising activities.

The MP toured the home and spent time meeting residents, relatives and staff.

The proposed vehicle would be able to carry several wheelchair users, helping more residents share outings together.

Liz Atkinson, registered manager, said: “Our job is to listen to what matters to our residents and work together to make those things possible.

“This minibus would help us turn more of their wishes into outings – with families, staff and the wider community all helping us work towards that goal.”

Mr Smith’s visit also provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges of supporting people living with dementia and other challenges for social care, and the contribution of international care workers.

The team thanked him for taking the time to visit and meet and listen to the people at the heart of the home, and thanked everyone who has supported the appeal so far.

Blessing Giwa, operations/registered manager, said: “Knowing each resident as an individual is at the heart of good care.

“For one person at The Grange, a good day might include seeing the sea. For another, it might mean visiting a familiar place or spending time with family.

“We want our residents to have those choices and our team works hard to help them enjoy a fulfilling life.”

Anyone interested in supporting the appeal can contact Trish, Liz or Blessing by calling 01665 711152 or emailing [email protected]