Helen Ley takeover gets into full swing

Representatives from Castel Froma, the Leamington-based care provider for people with neurological conditions which has taken over the running of Helen Ley, were joined by members of the Helen Ley trust and supporters and users of the home to mark what was hailed as a “new beginning” on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, which was held at the site in Blackdown, Ann Crossley, chairman of the Helen Ley Charitable Trust, said: “We heard two years ago, out of the blue, that the MS Society was withdrawing its support for its respite homes. It was a devastating blow.

“But then our fairy godmother came along - Castel Froma.

“We are realistic to know that there will be changes, but we are supporting Castel Froma.”

Steve Nicklin, chairman of the Castel Froma board of trustees, said: “We are very happy to be involved in steering Helen Ley towards a sustainable future.

“We believe that Castel Froma joining with Helen Ley is a good local solution.

“We are now one organisation, one charity, one board of trustees, one senior management team and one large team of staff, who mean everying to us.”

Emphasising the need for “significant community involvement”, he added: “None of our plans can become a reality 
without the support and 
involvement of local people who have given their time and/or money to support ongoing work at each centre.”

Castel Froma’s chief executive Rob Pearce pointed out that there is still much improvement work to be done at both sites - on “balancing the books” and 
introducing more rehabilative and transitional care at Helen Ley and working on plans to move Castel Froma from its Lillington Road location to a new purpose-built centre elsewhere in north Leamington.

He said: “Our ideas are growing. There is a business agenda here which is quite strong and really important.”

· Anyone wishing to get involved in volunteering for, donating towards, or supporting the Helen Ley or Castel Froma 
centres should call 313550.