Exemplar Health Care has officially opened its Wheldale Heights specialist care home in Castleford, West Yorkshire.

Mayor of Wakefield, Councillor Josie Pritchard cut the ribbon to open the £4.3 million home, which specialises in supporting adults living with complex mental health needs and neuro-disabilities, including Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

Clare Heaton, home manager at Wheldale Heights, said: “I am delighted to officially open Wheldale Heights and welcome our first residents from the local area. Our mission is to make every day better for our residents by providing person-centred care that focuses on maximising independence, building everyday living skills, and empowering people to live as fulfilled lives as possible.

“Our dedicated and compassionate team forms the foundation of the exceptional care we provide. However, we recognise that our responsibility extends beyond our immediate care home. Our next priority is to foster close collaboration with local health and social care professionals, as well as our valued residents, their families and the broader community.

“Through these partnerships, we strive to create an integrated support network that ensures individuals in our locality receive unparalleled specialist care. By meeting their complex needs within the familiar comfort of their own community, we aim to promote holistic well-being and enhance the overall quality of life for those we serve.”

The home has created 80 new healthcare jobs in the local area and will feature a multi-disciplinary healthcare team, which includes an in-home occupational therapist and physiotherapist. Wheldale Heights has already recruited a mix of care, nursing and therapeutic specialists – with recruitment currently ongoing for a few remaining care assistant roles.