Prime Minister praises Newham services for older people

His visit to the council's Community Resource Centre in Plaistow coincided with a Government announcement about personal care being provided free to people with the highest needs in their own homes - a scheme already run by Newham.

Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: "We strongly support the principle of helping people with the highest care needs to stay in their own homes. We want them to remain as independent as possible.

"We already provide free personal care to those most in need in the comfort of their own surroundings. Where an extra bit of help is required, the resource centre is there when they want it. We also offer those eligible and their families control over money for their care. This way they can decide how it is spent to best meet their needs."

Hairdressing facilities, learning new skills in the kitchen or computer lessons are just some of the activities offered at the centre in Chargeable Lane.

There is also a programme of theme days and professional entertainment as well as specialist help for stroke patients and for people with dementia. There is access to physiotherapists, wheelchair services, nurses, chiropodists and opticians amongst others.

The Mayor, together with Cllr Joy Laguda, executive member for older people, and centre manager Gill Teather introduced Mr Brown and Care Services Minister Phil Hope to some of the 400 residents who use the centre every week.

Mr Brown told Sir Robin: "You've got some great services here. We are very proud of everything you do."

Cllr Laguda said: "I felt proud that the Prime Minister was seeing council services that go the extra mile to provide real help and a friendly face for older people when most needed."