Facilities at Cairdeas House

Each guest’s experience of Cairdeas House is different as we aim to meet individual needs for different levels of support and activity. However guests choose to spend their time we aim to help them return to the community more able to cope with the stresses of everyday life.

Opening: We are open for 50 weeks of the year including Christmas. We are closed for the two weeks following Christmas.

Accommodation: The house has 8 guest house style bedrooms (5 single and 3 twin bedded), all with their own colour TV. Guests share a room only if they choose to do so and reduced rates are available to carers wishing to accompany guests.

Staffing: The house is staffed 24 hours a day, with one member of staff available during the night for emergencies. We have 5 project workers all of whom are experienced in working with people with a variety of mental health problems and who aim to create a supportive, relaxed environment that feels safe for all. We do not offer counselling or any other form of treatment as this is not considered appropriate in a respite setting.

Activities: There is a large, comfortable living room where guests can relax, watch TV, listen to music and chat to each other. We have a pretty walled garden for use during warmer weather. Art materials are always available and we have a variety of games and videos for guests to use. There are also opportunities for people to access the wide range of cultural and recreational activities available in Edinburgh and the surrounding area without pressure to participate. Staff and volunteers help to organise outings according to guests’ interests and will accompany guests according to need. Cairdeas House has its own transport for trips. Guests are responsible for covering their own costs on outings and activities.

Medication: Assistance with medication can be provided, but we are not able to help with personal or nursing care. Guests should bring enough medication for their stay.

Emergencies: Medical back up is available through our local GP practice.

Meals: Nutritious meals are prepared daily by our chef, who is experienced in catering to different dietary needs, and are eaten in the spacious dining room. Continental breakfast, a light lunch, and a two course evening meal are provided and snacks and hot drinks are available throughout the day and night.

Laundry and Ironing: Facilities are available for guests to use during their stay.

Arrival and Departure: Guests are asked to arrive after 3pm on the day of arrival and to leave by 11am on the day of departure. Staff are happy to meet guests from Edinburgh’s train or bus stations.

Alcohol and Illegal Drugs: The possession or consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs is not permitted.

Smoking: In line with the Smoking, Health and Social Care (Scotland) Act 2005, the communal areas of Cairdeas House are smoke free. At present guests are free to smoke in their own bedroom. In the longer term we hope to provide a smoking lounge, but this is not currently available.

Family and Friends: All visits require prior arrangement.

Disabled Access: There are no bedrooms located on the ground floor, so guests must be able to manage stairs. Bedrooms are available with minimal stairs for those with walking difficulties.

Open Access Policy: Guests are entitled to see their file by appointment.

Complaints Procedure: A complaints procedure is in place, and a leaflet explaining this is available in each guest bedroom.

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