Day centre with a difference

A community-based day centre “with a difference” which brings people together who are at risk of social isolation in the Redcar and Cleveland area is being expanded to keep up with demand for the service.

The ‘Safe Place’ initiative was launched by Caremark Redcar and Cleveland to bring together on a customers and staff of the homecare company in a social setting at Redcar Rugby Club each Tuesday.

But in order to satisfy demand for the service, which is now also open to people who are not currently customers of Caremark, it is now also operating on a Wednesday, and there are already plans in the pipeline to add further day and perhaps also an evening as well.

Each week, on Tuesdays and now Wednesdays, a dedicated team from Caremark Redcar and Cleveland plan and facilitate different activities for those taking part, including dominoes, quizzes, crosswords, arts and crafts and exercise.

Dogs from Caremark Redcar and Cleveland’s Animal Assisted Therapy Service also attend each week to provide some canine therapy.

Michelle Jackson, Caremark Redcar and Cleveland Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to have been able to extend the Safe Place so even more people can benefit it.

“It’s important to stress that this is very much a day centre with a difference where people come to actively take part in activities and interact with others.

““It’s a place where people can come to build friendships and benefit from regular social interaction and stimulation to improve their physical and mental well-being.”

John, who is one of the regular Safe Place customers, said: “Without Safe Place I would be stuck at home by myself, so it has made a massive difference to my life.

“I have met lots of new people and it’s something I look forward to each week.”

Another person benefiting is Dora, who enjoys playing dominoes with a group of new friends she has made through Safe Place.

“I love coming here and chatting with the customers and staff and being able to feed the dogs,” she says.

Another customer, Dennis said: “I look forward to coming because it’s great company for me, even if Dora does cheat at dominoes!”

Safe Place is open to Caremark’s customers and people who have been assessed by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s Adult Social Care Team.

Private paying customers are also welcome, with anyone interested in attending asked to contact Caremark initially on 01287 634706 or email redcar@caremark.co.uk

Transport can also be provided to and from the rugby club.