€2m centre for training staff who care for elderly
Church of Ireland Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross Paul Colton confirmed yesterday that the multi-disciplinary education centre will be built on the grounds of St Luke’s Home for the elderly in Mahon.
It will support the work at St Luke’s Home by providing in-house continuing professional development training for its staff and volunteers.
But it will also support the training needs of local caring organisations and institutions, churches, charities, and voluntary groups.
Bishop Colton said it will help bring the caring spirit of St Luke’s to even more people and ultimately help improve the lives of Cork’s elderly.
“St Luke’s Home has a proud tradition of caring for the elderly,” Bishop Colton said.
“We have invested heavily in the creation of a first-class facility here in Mahon, working with our excellent staff, mentors, volunteers, and the community at large.
“Now we are taking the opportunity to provide a new education centre.”
Reverend Bruce Pierce has been appointed director of education at the centre.
He holds several professional qualifications in the pastoral and healthcare area, and was, until recently, based at Kerry General Hospital.
“Our training methods will bring fresh thinking and practical training methods to the caring profession, with courses that are highly accessible and relevant,” he said.
The new centre will be ready in early 2010.
St Luke’s Home at Castle Road is a 120-bed facility and day-care centre for the elderly. It includes an Alzheimer’s unit.
