Ben prepares new care centre for January opening

Ben, the dedicated automotive welfare charity, has confirmed its new purpose built care centre will open in January 2015 and will feature, for the first time, a specialist dementia centre and facilities for younger and physically disabled people.

The multi-million pound facility, which has 96 beds, has been built on land owned by the charity at its base near Ascot in Lynwood, Surrey.

As part of the redevelopment the charity has also built 69 retirement apartments and nine cottages which are already being sold on a lease-hold basis to members of the public to help finance the bank loan secured by the charity for the development.

Ben said the Lynwood centre will deliver a world–class care facility that increases both the capacity and range of specialist services it can provide to those connected to the automotive industry.

“With an ageing population in the UK, and government policy focussing on caring for people in their own homes for as long as possible, residents tend to be frailer by the time access to residential care is agreed. Ben’s mission, to provide care and support to automotive people in times of need, will be enhanced through this development which ensures access to high quality care – both now and in the future,” said David Main, chief executive.

Lynwood’s new design incorporates specialist features that enable residents to maintain their independence.  In addition, every resident will also be able to enjoy secure, landscaped outside space, either through the gardens at ground level or the specially developed first floor roof garden. Each room is generously sized with en suite wet room, flat screen TV, phone point and Wi-Fi access.

“Care choices in the UK can be quite limited. Dementia support in general is still developing; many older people feel isolated in their own homes and where loved ones are caring for relatives the excessive demands of doing so, alongside already busy lives, all too often leads to unsustainable stress. At Ben we don’t want these to be the only options for our automotive community,” said Main.

“As a not for profit care provider Ben has become a trusted industry partner – with all our income focused on enabling the best possible care provision and support for our residents and those who,  through our extensive welfare work, we help in the wider community.  We have been committed to delivering exceptional care that serves our community for decades now.  Our innovative approach to the Lynwood redevelopment will truly enhance quality of life by creating an environment that will match the outstanding standards of care delivered by our professional team. All of Ben’s centres provide fantastic care so if anyone has a care need, whether it’s for themselves or a loved one, I urge them to get in touch.”