12-bed care home scheme moves forward

A 12-bed care home scheme in Manchester looks set to become a reality with plans due to get the nod.Applicant Dr Salam Fahad wants to change the use of a two-storey building on 209 Slade Lane into the facility.The property has previously been used as an unauthorised house of multiple occupation (HMO).The development relates to the provision of a unit for the care of adults over 18 experiencing or recovery from acute mental issues and requiring care. Two forms of care would be provided, with these being step down care and step up care. Step down care is for individuals leaving mental health wards and care settings and requiring support prior to returning home or relocating to alternative accommodation as part of a transition towards independent living. This form of care would be co-ordinated with individual GPs, hospitals and on-going health care support.Step up care is for people experiencing acute mental health difficulties and requiring emergency care for brief periods following either general practitioner (GP) and hospital referral. This form of care provision seeks to relieve pressure on health care resources, including hospital bed availability.The operation of the unit would be co-ordinated by the applicants as the unit medical doctor and care manager respectively. Care would be provided in two shifts, daytime between 8am and 8pm requiring four staff, and overnight from 8pm to 8am which will need two to three staff. Planning officials have recommended the proposals to be approved subject to conditions.Manchester City Council’s planning and highways committee meet on Thursday 2 September.