Blantyre LIFE, the pioneering ‘home for life’ care campus, marked its glowing inspection results by welcoming distinguished guests to tour the facility and meet staff and service users.
Lady Susan Haughey CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire’s Provost, Councillor Margaret Cooper, toured the innovative facility and heard first-hand about its transformative impact on people’s lives.
Hosted by Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, the visit highlighted both the innovation and compassion at the heart of Blantyre LIFE. The dignitaries met with staff and service users, including 97-year-old Duncan Campbell from Strathaven, who praised the care he has received during his four-week stay.
“It’s actually 97 and a half – don’t forget the half!” Duncan joked. “The staff have been looking after me so well. It’s a marvellous place – so well run, clean and tidy. It’s fantastic. I was forgetting to take my medication, but I’ve got it under control now and I’m doing a lot better.”
They also spoke with Catherine Carney, 76, from Blantyre, who is regaining her strength and confidence after a recent health setback.
She said: “I’ve been in for about ten days. I’ve had issues with my balance but I’m getting better and more confident. It’s a lovely place – the best place I’ve heard of. I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. The staff are so helpful and can’t do enough for you. I like to have a good blether with the staff and other people here.”
Lady Susan Haughey CBE praised the commitment of staff and the impact of the service: “It was truly heartening to meet Duncan and Catherine as well as the people behind Blantyre LIFE and how their efforts are changing lives.
“This is an exceptional facility that reflects the very best of innovation, compassion, and commitment to helping people live as independently as possible. Everyone involved should be immensely proud.”
The visit also marked a moment of celebration, as Blantyre LIFE recently received its first external inspection from the Care Inspectorate – earning “very good” gradings across all areas assessed.
Chelsea Crawford, Operations Campus Manager at Blantyre LIFE, said: “We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved here at Blantyre LIFE. Every member of our team plays a part in supporting people not just to recover, but to regain their independence and confidence.”
Morag Toolan, Enhanced Senior Support Worker, added: “The positive feedback we’ve received – from the Care Inspectorate and from the people we support – means so much. It reflects the values we live every day: compassion, respect, and a belief in what people can achieve with the right care at the right time.”
Provost Cooper said: “Blantyre LIFE is a lifeline for people recovering after a crisis and showcases what can be achieved through forward-thinking, collaborative working. I’m inspired by the stories I’ve heard today and grateful to every member of staff who makes this vital service a reality.”
Speaking after the visit, Professor Sengupta said: “This outstanding facility not only reduces reliance on long-term nursing and residential care but also plays a crucial role in supporting wider efforts to improve unscheduled care and tackle delayed discharges.
“Meeting Duncan and Catherine today once again brought to life the impact of what our teams do every day – restoring independence, rebuilding confidence and making people feel genuinely cared for.
“I am particularly proud that the service has recently undergone its first inspection by the Care Inspectorate – achieving ‘very good’ gradings across the board. This remarkable result is a reflection of the tireless work, skill and compassion of our committed colleagues and our dedicated leadership team.
“My sincere thanks go to all of our colleagues involved in bringing this exceptional service to life for the benefit of the entire South Lanarkshire community and to the community that we serve for their continuing support.”
