Belong celebrates its 10th birthday

Local care home, Belong Macclesfield, which provides specialist care and support for older people with dementia, is celebrating its 10^th anniversary.

Local MP, David Rutley, joined residents and staff at Belong and the Deputy Mayor of Macclesfield, Cllr Adam Schofield, to mark the occasion.

Residents enjoyed music throughout the afternoon from the Macclesfield Male Voice Choir, and the celebrations culminated with the planting of a new magnolia tree in the Home’s Front Garden, with help from David and Cllr Schofield. The tree was purposely chosen so that its strong scent could be enjoyed by residents with visual impairments.

Belong Macclesfield is home to 72 older people with full time care needs, living in 18 self-contained apartments, as well as six separate supported households with open plan lounge and kitchen areas. The Belong ‘village’ also features a bistro, hair salon and exercise studio that is open to the wider community.

On his visit, David spoke with residents and staff about their experiences at the Home, and the importance of properly supporting older people with long-term conditions and working to tackle isolation and loneliness. He also heard about Belong’s work with other important local organisations, including Age UK Cheshire East, and the Alzheimer’s Society, as well as schools, colleges and the Scouts and the Brownies.

Speaking after the event, David said, “I was glad to join staff and residents at Belong for this special occasion. As well as celebrating Belong’s 10th anniversary, it was a good opportunity to learn more about the high-quality care for older people that is being provided at this innovative ‘village’. I wish all at Belong Macclesfield well for the years ahead.”