Newcastle North MP, Catherine McKinnell, has received a guided tour of the Callerton Court retirement housing scheme, following an invitation from location manager, Hazel Blair.
Located on the edge of Newbiggin Hall and Westerhope, the Anchor Trust scheme provides self-contained rented accommodation for people aged over 55. It currently has 35 customers – the oldest being aged 98 – and is undergoing a complete refurbishment.
Catherine was joined for the tour by Lee Gallon, Headteacher of neighbouring Farne Primary School, during which they were able to see the newly-refurbished kitchen and bathroom of 95-year old resident, Margaret.
Catherine and Lee then met up with Callerton Court customers for a coffee morning in the housing scheme’s communal lounge.
Catherine said:
‘Callerton Court is a lovely facility, with a real community feel. It was great to see Margaret’s beautiful new kitchen, and to hear more about the plans for the rest of the building.
‘Hazel and her colleagues clearly care a great deal about the scheme’s residents, most of whom have already spent many happy years there. I’m also really impressed by the plans for close links between Callerton Court and Farne Primary School, which is important for both the residents and schoolchildren alike.’
Hazel Blair, who has been the Manager at Callerton Court for 26 years, commented:
‘Both I and Callerton Court’s customers really enjoyed Catherine’s visit, and the time she spent looking around the scheme and taking an interest in where they live. The coffee morning was a great success and we are all looking forward to welcoming her back once the refurbishment work is complete.’
Lee Gallon, Headteacher of Farne Primary School, said
‘It was wonderful speaking to the residents of Callerton Court and listening to their stories about the local area, and I am sure the pupils of Farne will enjoy working closely with them. Maintaining a link with the past and present is important, and this is a wonderful way to engage both the younger pupils and elderly residents.’