Official opening of Priory complex

THE Priory Group is continuing its investment in Northern Ireland with the opening of four purpose-built bungalows for adults with learning disabilities.

Bohill Bungalows form part of the Bohill House and were opened by Health Minister Edwin Poots MLA last Wednesday.

The specialised living environment offers support in a unique nursing and residential setting for those aged over 18, who have been diagnosed with mild and moderate learning difficulties, autism and complex physical disabilities.

The accommodation includes four bungalows, each with six bedrooms. The self-contained bungalows encourage residents to live as independently as possible.

As well as providing residential care, Bohill Bungalows offers a range of educational programmes which supports the development of independence and improvement of life skills.

Residents are offered a daily sports programme, access to expressive arts, such as art materials and musical instruments, and educational activities including group meetings to encourage relationship building and positive communication.

Priory Group’s aim, in line with best practice, is to provide appropriate services in a homely community based setting for individuals who otherwise would be living in a long stay hospital. This reflects the Bamford Review, an independent review, set up in 2002, which looked at the law, policy and provisions which affected people with mental health needs or a learning disability in Northern Ireland.

The Review states that no-one with a learning disability will be in a long stay hospital all the time.

Bohill Bungalows have been built to complement the services offered at Bohill House, which provides care for older people with dementia. The residential home reflects the very latest research in dementia care, focusing on a person’s abilities. Janette Malham, Managing Director Priory Older People Services, said: “These facilities are specifically designed to meet the needs of adults with a complex range of learning difficulties. The bungalows have been decorated and furnished to the highest specification to ensure residents feel completely relaxed and treat the space as their home.

“The service provides an environment that encourages residents to lead an independent life, whilst offering support to help them accomplish this. Bohill Bungalows is a great addition to the residential home which is already on the site, creating a living complex which focuses on support, which can be tailored for individuals needs.

“We have ensured the services are built as recommended in the Bamford Review with small groups and facilities to promote independence.

“Priory Group is keen to ensure that its investment in Northern Ireland reflects both need and Departmental Policy to serve the community better. As such the Bungalows meet the recommendations within the Bamford Review and we will uphold its values and principles to achieve positive outcomes.”