Chiming with our 180-year anniversary, the home’s residents were joined by family members, staff and supporters to greet The Princess Royal, Patron of Shaftesbury.
The Princess toured the building, meeting those who live at Shaftesbury New Court Place and learnt about the committed support they receive from the staff team. Her Royal Highness also saw a demonstration of the enhanced smart technology that provides increased independence for those that live here. These advances in technology mean individuals can control their room environment without assistance, use their television and media, open curtains and adjust light levels.
The Princess Royal viewed several areas that have recently been upgraded, including a newly installed sensory bath (kindly funded by The Hobson Charity) which provides therapy for residents. She heard about the wellbeing benefits of gardening in New Court Place’s tranquil renovated garden area, made possible by the generosity of railway company LNER through their Customer and Community Investment Fund. The garden had been in a state of decommission until funding was found.
Independence through assistive technology
People who live at Shaftesbury New Court Place showed off their prowess on their ‘digital table’, in the activities room, which enables people of any ability to enjoy interactive games, puzzles and more, individually or with others. Her Royal Highness heard about the need for funding for ceiling track hoists. These are needed for each of the resident’s rooms; the first two have kindly been provided by the local council and the Hospital Saturday Fund.
Among the residents who met HRH is Michelle, who is part of Shaftesbury’s Changes for the Future Forum, where she represents people supported by Shaftesbury. 18-year-old George, the newest resident, chatted to The Princess Royal about computer games. George is currently being supported to find a college place in the area, to study engineering.
Following speeches from Her Royal Highness and Shaftesbury Chief Executive Sally Chivers, all attending were invited to a lunch reception, where they heard about the need for funding for additional smart tech.
“It is a pleasure to bring the people we support, families and partners together today, alongside our Patron – The Princess Royal – to celebrate 180 years of Shaftesbury at a fabulous and long-standing service such as Shaftesbury New Court Place.”
– Sally Chivers, CEO