A family-run Doddington community care village is celebrating its 30th anniversary - having supported more than 1000 families.
Askham Village Community will hit the milestone on October 28, marking the day in 1988 when Salma and Salim Giga took over the running of Askham House – the first of what is now a collection of five specialist care homes.
“It is the day I will never forget – the beginning of our Askham story,” said Salma.
“It is an honour to have been able to support over 1000 families since then – either by helping with their recovery and rehabilitation or being a place that they can truly call home, for life.”
Residents and staff enjoyed a special afternoon tea as a ‘thank you’ for their ongoing commitment.
But a bigger celebration will be held next spring, when all of Askham Village Community’s 100 plus residents can join in the fun.
“While we’re marking the occasion this month, we’ve decided to save the big celebration until next year - when the sun is shining, and we can throw a big garden party that everyone can enjoy.” said Salma.
On-site services and amenities across the seven-acre site are designed to make the whole place feel like a small, friendly village in which to live.
Facilities include a café, a shop, sensory landscaped gardens and a leisure therapy centre.
Open to the public, the gardens and café encourage integration and a sense of independence.
Salim, Askham’s chairman, said: “For us, Askham was, and always will be, about giving back to the community that welcomed us with open arms when we came to the UK all those years ago.”
Mr and Mrs Giga’s daughters, Aliyyah, now 35, and Rabiyyah, 37, now help run the facility along with their parents.
“Askham Village Community is a place built with the sole aim of giving people the best quality of life possible, no matter their circumstance,” said Aliyyah.
“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the help of our colleagues at the Care Quality Commission and in the wider industry, our incredible staff and of course, the vision of our parents.
“Askham has already spanned a generation. Working together, we hope to ensure it serves many more to come.”
For more information on Askham Village Community call 01354 740269 or www.askhamvillagecommunity.com.
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