A BRAND new residential care facility for adults with mental health difficulties and acquired brain injuries has now opened in Dumbarton.

Located on Gooseholm Road, the purpose-built, 32-bed care facility Alderwood House offers an environment that meets all regulatory requirements, and welcomed its first residents on March 22.

The team at Alderwood House, staffed by leading care provider Meallmore Ltd, consists of mental health support workers, registered mental health nurses and general adult nurses, and is led by manager Barbara McDonald who brings a wealth of expertise in developing and managing mental health facilities, and over 30 years of sector experience.

After qualifying as a mental health nurse, Barbara worked in a range of NHS, voluntary and third-sector roles across the west of Scotland, specialising in continuing care, rehabilitation and community psychiatric nursing, as well as developing specialist mental health and learning disability services in the community.

Barbara said: “Alderwood House will provide industry-leading mental health care and support to individuals who require this service.

"There is a real need for specialised residential care facilities across Scotland to support people with complex mental health issues and provide rehabilitation opportunities, and we are proud to open this new service in Dumbarton.

"We are extremely grateful to the local community for welcoming the service and in particular the support from local GP practices and Community Mental Health Teams.

“What has impressed me so far about Meallmore is the company’s dedication to investing in its staff.

"All staff at Alderwood House have undergone weeks of stringent training to support residents with specific mental health needs.

"All of our staff are looking forward to welcoming residents to Alderwood House.”