Leigh MP and Shadow Home Secreraty Andy Burnham's told WIshFM a groundbreaking new rehabilitation village will not only save lives in the Borough but also save millions of pounds.
A brand-new purpose-built wellbeing centre - Haven House - now neighbours community hub Patrick House on Leigh Road, which provides residential accommodation for those in the charity’s Recovery Academy.
Immediately behind is a row of smart new houses for people who have learning disabilities. The development of these properties - Duva Mews - was completed by the charity’s patrons, Patrick Joinery.
“In these times of financial austerity, we are so proud to have worked with all our partners and generous benefactors to find creative new ways to meet the health, wellbeing and social inclusion needs of vulnerable people in Leigh,” said the charity’s Chief Executive Pam Gilligan.
“The residents of our Recovery Academy have been helping the residents of Duva Mews to live independently in their own homes. People under the care of Haven House who are experiencing anxiety and other mental health conditions will have access to wellbeing groups and community events in Patrick House, where we also continue to welcome veterans for a weekly free brunch.
‘The community we are creating is not just one of bricks and mortar - though we are very proud of our new buildings. It’s about having shared values and supporting one another to achieve personal goals – whether that’s independence, social inclusion, recovery or mental wellbeing. Not only is this the best outcome for those individuals involved, it also reduces financial pressure on statutory health and social care providers, potentially saving the public purse millions.”
Wish FM joined Mr Burnham on a tour of the facility :
"What Pam does here is get to the heart of people's problems and put them back on their feet and in the process save the borough millions of pounds. It's truly a fantastic thing we've got here; we need to shout about it more because other places don't have something as impressive or truly life changing as this."