MP 'greatly impressed' by Abbey Dingle Care Home covid-19 measures

Simon Baynes MP paid a visit to the Abbey Dingle Care Home to gain an insight into its activities – both recently and earlier on during the Covid-19 pandemic – and to learn more about its history.

During the visit, Mr Baynes met with directors Kenneth and Carol Mascarenhas, who have run the home since its creation 35 years ago.

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The MP discussed with the couple the safety initiatives taken by staff at the home to keep residents well – both in body and mind. This included the creation of a dedicated isolation wing, a Covid-proofed visitor/reception centre and a purpose designed vehicle for the protected transport of residents and staff outside the home.

At the onset of the pandemic in February 2020 home-made PPE packs designed and made with the assistance of the residents, the local school and others in the community, were issued to all staff and residents’ visiting relatives for their protection outside the home.

Thanks to this, the home has had no Covid casualties throughout the course of the pandemic to date.

PIC: Simon Baynes MP with Kenneth Mascarenhas.

Mr Baynes also learnt more about the history of the site – the former J&R Cuthberts (Horticultural Seeds) Administration Centre (secretly relocated from London to protect the valuable seed stocks from being destroyed) and how it played a major role in originating the famous ‘Dig for Victory’ campaign during World War II.

Kenneth and Carol Mascarenhas also invited Mr Baynes to see Abbey Dingle’s own dedicated ambulance/courtesy car, which is on standby and available, should it be needed, at all times.

Following the visit, Simon Baynes MP said: “I was greatly impressed to hear about the many sensible and safe precautions taken by Kenneth, Carol and the rest of the team at Abbey Dingle.

"I understand that most of them were based on the work of Florence Nightingale and Mary Jane Seacole from the Crimean War in 1853. I enjoyed my visit very much, and was most impressed by the regular activities organised for residents at the home.

“It is also noted that as a continuing family commitment to the Llangollen community, Carol and Ken’s children, Richard and Bethan have chosen to involve themselves, and presently manage another small local Care Home, The Old Vicarage in Llangollen, in family succession, previously established by Bronwen and David Morris 30 years ago.”

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Kenneth Mascarenhas said: “The arrival of Simon Baynes MP was a very welcome surprise to the home. Whilst access was restricted due to ongoing Covid counter-measures, the residents and staff were very appreciative of him making the time and effort in visiting them and noting his concern for their well-being during lockdown.

“As a memento and practical incentive to help promote the town’s heritage, Simon arranged to have a dedicated copy of his book which he co-authored with his father documenting the history of his local family-run hotel at Lake Vyrnwy, for the home’s library, offering help and advice to anybody prepared to rise to the challenge, which can only benefit the economy and community in these uncertain economic times.”