Harrington House opens in former Qu’Appelle Care Home with residents of Chevington House, Bourne

A revamped care home will give a business a fresh start.

The Wellbeing Care Group transferred all 14 residents from its Chevington House care home the short distance across Bourne to the former Qu’Appelle Care Home in Harrington Street.

The move to the newly-created Harrington House took place in September for many residents but it wasn’t until yesterday (Tuesday) that the home was officially opened by mayor of Bourne Anna Kelly.

Owner of the business Bob Dhaliwal describes the new premises as a 'breath of fresh air'.

“It all fell into place at the right time,” he said.

Bob bought the site after Qu'Appelle closed in September 2021 when Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue raised serious safety concerns, while Chevington House had been given a 'requires improvement' rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

According to Bob, the business was struggling to obtain planning permission to make Chevington House safer which meant a new premises was always on the cards.

The new base can house up to 40 residents, more than double Chevington’s capacity of 17.

All of the bedrooms and communal areas have been redecorated, and a new fire alarm system has been fitted.

The name was also changed to Harrington House, to fit with the location and give the business a fresh start.

“Harrington House was chosen by the staff and residents,” said Bob.

“The name fits with the new home.

“We held off on opening purely to make sure we were ready.”

The 29-strong team at Harrington House is awaiting an inspection from the CQC which Bob is ‘confident’ will see them rated highly.

Before the move residents were able to visit the house and chose their room.

“Residents were integral to the move,” he said.

“Chevington was a lovely home and the reason it was so successful is because it was small, family-orientated and supported by families.”

The former Chevington House is still under ownership of the Wellbeing Care Group and plans are in the early stages to turn it into supported living.