The tech linking Haylie to the world

Modern technology is now playing an important role for the residents of Haylie House in Largs.
General manager Irene Smith told the ‘News’ that thanks to the Skype video calling service, residents can be put in touch with relatives living abroad, which can sometimes lead to emotional online reunions.
Despite significant and ongoing financial constraints, the Residential Care Home continues to adapt and improve with recently completed garden room, patio and kitchen refurbishment providing new facilities for the 26 residents.
Haylie House was opened as a care home for the elderly in 1955, to serve the local community. Affiliated to Scottish Care, it is a registered charity, operating on a not-for-profit basis.
The management team is supported by a Board of Trustees, representing a broad range of backgrounds, operating on a voluntary basis.
Haylie House has 46 members of staff operating on a rota-shift basis, 365 days per year.
Chair of Board of Trustees Gerry Condron said: “The main challenge we face is in balancing our finances, when fee income from local authority does not keep pace with rising operating costs. However, as part of our continuous improvement programme, within the past 12 months, we have completed our new garden room and patio with a secure glass fronted terrace. More recently we have totally refurbished our kitchen. These changes have been made possible by extensive fundraising and some very welcome donations.”
General manager Irene Smith said: “The new garden room is colourful, bright and spacious, ideal for residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic views. With warm weather on the way, residents will soon have access to the secure patio and hopefully enjoy a spot of gardening.
We are pleased to welcome representatives from the local churches, who join the residents for afternoon tea, on a monthly rota.”
Although Haylie House has planning permission for a dementia unit extension, the project is on hold until financial conditions improve significantly. Gerry explained : “As a Board of Trustees, we review our finances and future strategy on a regular basis, to ensure we can continue to provide the best possible care for our residents, our number one priority.”