Former care home in Bridport to become reablement centre

Plans to turn a former care home into a recovery hub for older people have been approved.

Dorset Council has agreed to use the former Sidney Gale Care Home in Bridport for the county's first reablement centre.

Unlike a hospital or care home, the 60-bed site will offer short-term, intensive care and therapy in a home-like environment.

A planning application will come forward next year and, if successful, construction is due to start in early 2026.

Councillor Steve Robinson, cabinet member for adult social care, said the Sidney Gale site in Bridport was a prime location with good access to the town.

"Reablement centres are fantastic in ensuring that people can continue living independently in their community after illness and to cope with the consequences of old age." He said.

"They support and encourage people's highest level of participation in their own care, such as dressing, moving around the home and relearning domestic tasks, ensuring they are as active as possible within their own community," he added.

The council said it will help to prevent hospital admissions and reduce pressure on NHS beds and services.

The local authority said talks about a second reablement site, on the Dorset County Hospital estate in Dorchester, are ongoing.