THE £1m refurbishment of Parkside Care Home in Maryport has now been completed and its doors are now open to welcome residents.

The investment means that Parkside Care Home now meets the 'Dementia Gold Standard', according to Cumbria County Council.

The refurbishment work at the 29-bed care home includes full redecoration, improvements to the bathrooms, conversion of some of the bedrooms into larger rooms and modifications to others.

Times and Star: People gathered for the opening of the new care home People gathered for the opening of the new care home (Image: Supplied)

The laundry has been refurbished in line with the latest infection control guidelines, and there has also been an improvement to the outside space for residents, including a new garden room.

All the work supports a reduction to the county council’s carbon footprint through investment in new double-glazed windows and doors, increased insulation, a better ventilation system and the use of LED lighting, all of which aim to reduce energy consumption.

Cumbria County Councillor David Southward, cabinet member for economic development and property, said: “I am delighted that we are providing the very best care for those who need it, investing significant sums of money into providing modern, state of the art facilities for the people of Cumbria.”

Times and Star: Andy Connell at the opening of the care home Andy Connell at the opening of the care home (Image: Supplied)

“The investment we have made also ensures that our Cumbria Care staff are working in an environment that enables them to deliver the very highest standard of care and I am sure that all the staff will enjoy returning to the refurbished home.”

Cumbria County Councillor Patricia Bell, cabinet member for adult social care added: “Parkside Care Home has had significant investment which brings it up to the all-important Dementia Gold Standard.

"Simple changes such as different colours on walls and door frames, plain carpets that are similar in colour and texture and clear signage on rooms and cupboards, which help reduce stress and anxiety levels of people with dementia.

Times and Star: The new care home has been opened today The new care home has been opened today (Image: Supplied)

“I am thrilled that the home is now ready to welcome people back, and I am sure that staff and residents will enjoy the newly refurbished facilities.”