New IT facility opens for residents at MHA Pennystone Court

MHA Pennystone Court care home in Blackpool has announced the grand opening of its new, interactive IT room. The facility, which provides residents with a place to learn about technology and catch up with long-distance loved ones, was officially opened on Friday 22 March by local MP, Paul Maynard.

Recognising that many residents at the home have relatives living all over the world, staff set about running fundraising events, such as fairs, charity nights and even filming a ‘lip syncing’ video which went viral, until they raised the £4,000 needed to build the IT facility.

The new room is equipped with a 55-inch TV with access to YouTube, two desktop computers with large keyboards especially designed for sensory impairment, one laptop and even an iPad. To ensure residents feel as relaxed as possible in the room, a tea and coffee making area has been added, along with comfortable seating and soft LED lighting.

For Pennystone Court resident, Mrs Page, access to this new technology means she’ll be able to video call her niece’s family, including her grandson who she last saw on his Christening Day 30 years ago, and granddaughter, whom she has never met.

Another resident, whose son is getting married a day after the IT room opens, will be able to video call her new daughter-in-law on the morning of the wedding, to see her wearing the bracelet she gave as a wedding gift.

Home Manager, Elizabeth Robbins commented: "My team are so passionate about not only providing quality care but looking at how we can go above and beyond for our residents to enrich their lives.

"Raising all of the money ourselves means so much to everyone at Pennystone Court. I am very proud of the team and can’t wait to see residents enjoying the room."