17 August 2010
Plans to begin refurbishment at Brig-y-Don Children's Home have been submitted to the Planning Department for consideration.
The plans focus on making changes to the interior of the building, which will mean that the accommodation on offer conforms to modern-day care standards. The interior has changed little within 80 years, and it is estimated that £650,000 will have to be spent on the proposed refurbishment.
The plans mean that the building could provide a home for both younger and older children with varying needs, and would also mean that some siblings could live together. Residential care bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms are to be provided, with one for emergency admissions and / or overnight staff in the main house. In addition, 2 independent living bedsit units would be created in the annexe to cater for transitional requirements of older children.
Earlier this year, an agreement was signed which will mean that the States of Jersey will lease the building from the Brig-y-Don charity for £50,000 a year. The care of children and young people there will form part of the Williamson recommendations.
HSSD Minister Anne Pryke said "It is a priority for us to get Brig-y-Don refurbished and ready so that young people who need care can be given it in what will be an appropriate environment. There was a pressing need following the Williamson report to develop these services immediately. We are pleased to be able to rent Brig-y-Don from the charity so we can get on with the crucial work around child issues in Jersey."
Deputy Pryke added “It is wonderful that for children in Jersey who need specialist help that Brig-y-Don will be able to cater for them. It is also pleasing that the care provision, highlighted in the Williamson recommendations, are coming to fruition. It will be such a benefit to the children who need this care. It is wonderful that the building will now be used again to give children a home.”
Chairman of Brig-y-Don Susie Pinel said "This refurbishment programme is expected to take 5 months with a planned re-opening of the home in June 2011. It has been a long time in negotiation but we are delighted that the relations between Brig-y-Don charity and HSSD continue to flourish and we very much look forward to children and young people being in Brig-y-Don once more."
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