New high-tech brain injury facility opens in Stamullen

The first private, residential centre in Ireland for people with acquired brain injury was officially opened by Health Minister, Mary Harney, in Stamullen on Friday. The €10m Redwood Extended Care Facility has 32 beds and provides high-tech treatment and rehabilitation to patients including those funded by the public health service. Cathal McAuliffe, clinical neurophysiologist at the centre, said the opening meant many adults with acquired brain injury would no longer have to go to Britain for specialised rehabilitation. The Redwood Extended Care Facility is part of the Talbot Group of Care Facilities owned by brothers Dr. Tony Woods and Mr. Michael Woods. It offers state of the art facilities to clients with an intellectual disability who may have challenging behaviour or other mental healthcare needs. At the opening of the facility, Prof Tim Lynch, consultant neurologist at the Mater Hospital in Dublin, said there was a severe shortage of facilities in the public health system for the rehabilitation of people with acquired brain injury and neurological problems. He said that around 10,000 people were living with the consequences of a head injury. The Redwood facility also provides a comprehensive assessment, treatment and rehabilitation service incorporating a specialised neurobehavioural rehabilitation unit. This specialised unit provides in-patient support to persons with an acquired brain injury and significant behavioural challenges. Located on a 70 acre estate near Stamullen, Redwood offers peace and tranquillity and clients are encouraged to enjoy the grounds either by walking the nature trail, growing flowers or fruit and vegetables in the well equipped horticultural centre or by exploring their artistic side with the guidance of professional tutors. Clients are encouraged to develop their skills in an individualised programme and can achieve FETAC qualifications within the unit. Facilities at Redwood include 32 modern, bright, single occupancy bedrooms each with wash hand basin, call bell, phone and TV point, specially adapted and equipped shower, bathroom and toilet facilities, purpose built activities and daily living rooms. The facility also has therapy rooms, relaxation and quiet rooms, recreational facilities - day rooms with TV, DVD and music facilities,fitness training room, classrooms, multi sensory room and garden, secure outdoor recreational facilities - trampoline, basketball, tennis, football etc, as well as shared and private courtyards The centre also has its own transport for day trips and community activities. The facility employs 70 people including nurses, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, health care assistants, a Montessori teacher, art teacher, horticulturalist and activities coordinator.