Armley’s Paisley Lodge Care Home has launched a dedicated mental health community for people aged 65 and over living with complex mental health conditions.
Already recognised for its specialist Reconnect Dementia Care, Paisley Lodge has now introduced Reconnect Mental Health Care, a pioneering new community for older adults living with conditions including depression, anxiety, delirium, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use disorders.
Rated Good by the Care Quality Commission, the home is part of Orchard Care Homes, an award-winning provider with 23 homes across the North of England and the Midlands.
Paisley Lodge has been redesigned to include warm, familiar spaces that mirror the comfort of home – cosy living rooms, welcoming kitchens, gardens and peaceful areas for relaxation.
Residents are supported to use these spaces freely, just as they would in their own homes, promoting independence and confidence. Families are invited to be actively involved, helping to maintain identity, connection and a strong sense of belonging.
Craig Chatburn, Home Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be the first home in the group to offer Reconnect Mental Health and to provide truly person-centred support for older people living with mental health conditions in Leeds.
“Mental health in later life can present very differently, so we focus on care that is age-appropriate, practical and tailored to each resident’s needs. Our goal is to create a home where people feel safe, supported and able to enjoy life with purpose and pleasure every day.”
The home operates an enhanced specialist support worker-to-resident ratio. Colleagues receive expert, bespoke training through the Orchard Academy, giving them the advanced skills and understanding required to support older people living with complex mental health needs.
This ensures every resident receives truly personalised care shaped by their life history, routines and passions.
The community was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Dan Cohen, on Wednesday, 3 December. Councillor Cohen commended the home’s warm and welcoming environment, offering his best wishes for the future.
“I genuinely wish you all the best of luck for the next chapter,” said Councillor Cohen. “Reconnect Mental Health is a fantastic service, and I have no doubt it will serve the local community well.”
Hayden Knight, CEO of Orchard Care Homes, added: “This launch marks an important milestone for Orchard, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone whose hard work and commitment made it a reality. We are extremely proud to introduce our first specialist Reconnect Mental Health community and grateful for the opportunity to provide high-quality, person-centred support to older people in Leeds.”
Sponsored content
