Newcastle's Philip Cussins residential home has been rated good in all aspects in a new Care Quality Commission report. But the home's chairman, Alan Share, is concerned for its long-term future, given the declining Tyneside Jewish population.
The 20-bed kosher home is sustaining more than three-quarters occupancy and most residents are Jewish. "We are not a nursing home but once people come to us, we try to look after them until the end of their days where possible," Mr Share said.
A number of large legacies had left the home in the enviable position of "never having to ask for money. Nor do we have to make economies. The staff are well paid, so there is continuity of care." The conundrum its leaders faced was "a diminishing Jewish community - so lesser demand - and the choice of care options for non-Jews". Efforts were being made to raise the home's profile in the non-Jewish market.
The CQC inspection found that the premises were clean, staff were well trained, kind and caring, the religious and cultural needs of residents were met and a variety of social and stimulating activities were provided.
Mr Share said the response to such reports should be to look for areas of improvement, but there had been no criticism. "The professionalism of the staff is superb."
Shrinking community had resulted in lesser demand
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