CCH redevelopment nears opening
Based on the small-house model of care, the upgrade features private rooms, lifestyle amenities and landscaped gardens.
South Australian aged care provider Clayton Church Homes will expand its footprint in the Adelaide Hills with the opening next month of a new 60-bed facility.
Located in the small town of Uraidla with views of the Piccadilly Valley, the $28-million upgrade on the 4,000 square metre site – Summerhill – replaces a 25-room facility, more than doubling capacity of the original building.
“When the original community nursing home was transferred to us we pledged to make this an iconic home – that is exactly what we have created,” said CCH chair Greg Adey. “Summerhill is a wonderful place to live and work, as well as a vibrant addition to the Adelaide Hills. It reflects what is most important to older people and their families as well as the local community.”
Based on a small-house model of care, and offering specialist dementia care, Summerhill features private rooms with ensuites, lifestyle amenities – including a gym – and landscaped gardens and courtyards. Fresh meals will be cooked onsite daily using seasonal local produce.
But perhaps most importantly, Adelaide Hills residents – many of whom have lived in the region all their lives – will reap the benefits of remaining in place, said Mr Adey. “Being able to stay in their community as they age, where they have familiar networks and are close to friends and family, is so important to their health, wellbeing and quality of life.”
Given the greenlight in 2021, the Summerhill facility – which will employ 75 people once it is fully operational – is 15 minutes from the city. “This makes it within easy reach for residents with families based in the metropolitan area, as well as staff,” said Mr Adey.
Local businesses will also benefit Summerhill’s upgrade, he said. “From allied health services in the area and the Uraidla Cottage Pharmacy just metres down the road to local artists and start-ups, the economic and social advantages are boundless.”
Mr Adey added: “From the outset, we have collaborated with local business and the community to being this vision to life. Combined with CCH’s commitment to positive ageing, the setting and community partnership are what makes this project unique.”
Established in 1968, CCH operates five aged care homes across Adelaide with a total of 365 beds, as well as 189 retirement units across 13 villages – mainly in the Adelaide Hills.
Having grown its revenue to $43.3 million last financial year, Mr Adey said the independent, not-for-profit provider would continue to evolve into the future. “We are focused on growing our social impact to support older South Australians to live their very best lives.”
Main image: Clayton Church Homes’ Summerhill redevelopment in the Adelaide Hills
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