Local MP visits Ipswich neurological care centre The Chantry

Specialist Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre, The Chantry, had a recent visit from MP for Ipswich, Sandy Martin, who discussed the centre's role in the local area, plus the upcoming expansion of the service, which has been rated 'Outstanding' by The Quality Care Commission. 

MP Sandy Martin meets with a client & staff member at The Chantry Care Centre.

On the day, Mr. Martin got to meet with the centre's management, clinical staff and various clients, to see the vital service provided and learn more about the intensive therapy programmes which the upcoming expansion will facilitate. 

The expansion will help clients regain physical function, social skills and confidence

Supported by the expert, experienced healthcare team, the clients, who are living with acquired brain injury, the effects of stroke and progressive conditions such as multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease and Parkinson's disease, will be aided by the newly-boosted programmes, which will help them to regain their physical function, social skills and confidence in their daily lives.

One of the centre's clients Mr. Martin chatted with was Paul Osbourne, who is originally from Essex. Paul talked about his love of sports and they both shared stories about their interest in local football team Ipswich Town F.C.

Since arriving at The Chantry, Paul has made excellent progress with his mobility and attends the centre's regular exercise groups, which Mr. Martin was keen to discuss in detail.

The Chantry responded to the need for this type of specialist rehabilitation provision

Also of interest to Mr. Martin was the celebration of The Chantry recently being awarded an overall 'Outstanding' rating by the Care Quality Commission, who are the independent regulator of all health & social care services across England.

The highest level that can be awarded to health service providers, this is due, in part, to the effective way in which The Chantry responded to the vital need for this type of specialist rehabilitation provision for people in Suffolk and the neighbouring counties, as well as the careful and attentive way that this crucial service has been developed over time. 

A testament to their professionalism and dedication 

Regarding his visit to The Chantry and the expansion, the local MP for Ipswich said: “I am so proud that Sue Ryder is running their Neurological Care Centre at The Chantry here in Ipswich. I feel sure that they gain from the welcome and support of the people of Ipswich, and I know that we all gain immeasurably from their presence here."

“I want to congratulate Jo and her team on the fantastic specialist care they give to all the people they help, and it’s a testament to their professionalism and dedication that the centre is now going to expand."

The importance of appropriate specialist local facilities 

Jo Marshall, Centre Director at Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre The Chantry, said: 'It was great to have the chance to raise issues with Sandy today and speak about the importance of having appropriate specialist local facilities for people requiring neurological rehabilitation.  A brain injury can be devastating for the person and their family and access to our services can be potentially life changing."

“We have been supporting people here in Ipswich for 25 years and as well as the specialist rehabilitation service, will continue to provide medium and long term care for people with complex neurological disabilities as well as day and community services.”

Alongside the clinical therapy offered for rehabilitation, The Chantry offers a range of other therapeutic activities such as music, art, pets as therapy and Virtual Reality sessions which help to maintain wellbeing for longer-term clients.