RESIDENTS are settling well into a new care home built on the site of the former Blawarthill Hospital in Knightswood.

Provided by Glasgow’s Health and Social Care Partnership, Victoria Gardens has replaced outdated facilities at Rannoch House in Kelvindale and Drumry House in Drumchapel.

Complete with its own cinema and hair salon, the home is a stylish, contemporary facility that has underfloor heating, and en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers.

Many of the residents have dementia and the décor is designed to stimulate memories and spark conversation.

Robert Robertson, 71, said: “I love my new room, it’s bigger than the one I used to have. I didn’t have an en-suite bathroom there, so I love my new shower room, because I can use it without help. It has helped me become more independent.

“I’m looking forward to the summer when we can get out into the gardens.”

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Residents were involved in choosing the home’s tasteful décor including the paint colours and types of furniture, carpets and curtains.

Chair aerobics, bingo, choir, Tai Chi and an intergenerational project with youngsters from a local nursery all keep the residents, aged between 70 to 101, busy.

Yvonne Scroggie, operations manager, said: “We’ve seen a transformation in some of the residents since they moved here.

“One person used to spend a lot of time in their room, but now they are mixing with the other residents and accessing all the communal areas.

“The move went really smoothly, and the residents have really blossomed - I think it was because they were involved in planning the move and in decisions about the new facility.

“It is a lovely environment for residents and staff and when the better weather comes and we can make use of the gardens, it will be great.”