The care home plans for the new facility to replace St Rognvald House in Kirkwall were unveiled to the public on Tuesday 23rd January.

The purpose built care home will be situated at the Solisquoy site and will be constructed over several phases. The complex will cater for 60 residents all in private en suite rooms.

The Architect, David Scott, explained that the layout comprises of 6 separate wings. Each of the wings has 10 bedrooms laid out very much like a little street. There is a small window on the ‘street’ side and an opposite window in the room looking out over either the internal or external gardens.

Each wing also has its own support facilities, dining area and lounge with a conservatory.

The facilities exceed the current requirements stipulated by the Care Inspectorate (Building Better Care Homes for Adults)

All rooms which are larger than those at St Rognvald’s will also have tracking fitted for when hoists are required. There are 4 bariatric rooms suitable for much larger residents.

The whole idea is to move away from the idea of an institution and there are facilities for providers of visiting services such as hairdressing, There is also a larger area when all residents can come together for events.

Using a ground source heat pump the rooms will have underfloor heating. Residents will be able to control the heating in their own room.

The Solisquoy site for the care home will also include housing developments by Orkney Islands Council and the Orkney Housing Association. It may also result in the housing nearest the care home being suitable for those with additional needs.

It is hoped that the first residents will be able to move in by the summer of 2021. The intention being to have:

“an environment that provides small group living which is homely”.

Public event in Kirkwall of the plans for the proposed care home

See also Care Homes

Reporter: Fiona Grahame