Family-run care provider Excelcare has opened ‘warm banks’ for people over the age of 65 in some of its Essex care homes.
These warm banks, which will remain open until 31 March, are free to attend. From 11 am to 4 pm each day, people aged 65 and over will be welcomed into a selection of Excelcare homes to seek refuge from the cold and enjoy a hot drink.
The homes providing warm banks are Abbot Care Home in Harlow, Sherrell House in Chigwell, Ashlyn Care Home in Harlow, Sweyne Court in Rayleigh, and Lime Court in Harwich.
The warm banks in each home are situated in communal areas such as lounges and dining rooms, so guests will also have the opportunity to engage with the people who live and work there. Precautions are in place to ensure residents remain safe – upon entry, guests will be asked to sanitise their hands, complete a lateral flow test (depending upon current guidance), and wear a face mask.
Helen Bennett, regional operations director of Excelcare homes in Essex, said: “It’s a pleasure to announce the opening of our warm banks in care homes across the region. Providing a safe space for people who are in need this winter is something we have been committed to doing and I am so happy to see this initiative come to life.
“I encourage people over the age of 65 to make use of these warm banks and seek refuge in our comfortable homes surrounded by our caring teams.”
