It is always my pleasure to visit people doing great things within my constituency. Last week was National Care Homes Open Day and I visited homes in Ferryhill, Newton Aycliffe and Middleton St George.
First stop was in Ferryhill where the award winning Tenlands home allowed me to meet some of their residents. It was an honour to meet Eva who at 104 years old had us all laughing as she shared stories of her life, growing up in Ferryhill. I was impressed by the atmosphere at the home and the warm reception fro myself and others at the open day.
We were then off to Middleton St George where we had a tour of St George’s Hall & Lodge. It was fascinating to see the centre and how the place had been specially designed for its residents with room doors that looked like front doors and even a bar with a piano.
Our last visit was to Defoe Court, Newton Aycliffe where I was delighted to hear Woodham Academy Band playing a range of songs from modern hits to songs from the 50’s. The residents clapped along and looked to be as entertained as I was.
The Open Day is a fantastic scheme which gives outsiders a glimpse of the good work that happens in our care homes. There are also points to learn politically from the visits about how local and national policy decisions can affect how care homes operate which I will look into investigating further.
I thank all the centres for opening their doors to me and the public and I look forward to visiting again soon.
Phil Wilson M.P.
