Madam,

The way that residents benefitted from residential care at Bodlondeb since 1965 has to be to the credit of first Cardiganshire, then Dyfed and now Ceredigion County Counci. It means that residents have independence, company and dedicated trained carers

It was a purpose-built care home, maintained for a number of years by Ceredigion council employees. Residents lived in close proximity to churches, chapel and a variety of shops, including the post office in Penparcau. It is close to the ambulance station, fire station and police station, and close to surgeries, which meant doctors and district nurses attended Bodlondeb when necessary. It is also close to Bronglais Hospital and dental surgeries.

At Bodlondeb trained staff have made sure residents had medication, food, clothing laundered, a safe home. For me, working there, it was going from one home to another. Entertainment was provided by staff, friends of Bodlondeb, relatives and friends of residents, Santa, the town band and various choirs. We attended carnivals in Penparcau and Aberystwyth and, if transport was available, in Borth. With Friends of Bodlondeb we went out for teas, lunch at various locations, anywhere within 20 miles.

To all county councillors, regarding the consultation on Bodlondeb, I hope this account will help in your decision. You know what you have to do. The public in Ceredigion implores you to keep Bodlondeb open, where 66 residents could live. With the assistance of the Welsh Government you must keep providing social services care, residential care and day centre care.

As a county we must put pressure on jointly. Don’t close Bodlondeb.

Yours etc,

Dai ‘Dogs’ Thomas, Llwyn yr Eos, Penparcau, Aberystwyth.

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