Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Climate Change funding has enabled Soham Lodge Care Centre to upgrade their facilities to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs by an impressive £30k per year. This has had a positive impact on the living and working conditions for residents and staff.
In May 2024, the care home applied for a grant aimed at helping independent care homes lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage. Their successful bid secured them just under £100k in funding, which they matched, allowing them to install triple-glazed windows, solar panels, rainwater harvesting and air conditioning. These upgrades not only reduced energy consumption but also improved comfort for residents.
Specialising in bariatric care, dementia support and complex care needs, Soham Lodge Care Centre serves residents of all ages and backgrounds. With varying temperature preferences amongst residents, eco-proofing the facilities was essential to maintain comfort while controlling costs. Cooler temperatures have been beneficial for bariatric patients, encouraging mobility, participation in activities, and progress to achieving their weight loss goals.
The savings from reduced energy consumption have also enabled the care home to re-invest in its future. Soham Lodge Care Centre has hired 10 additional staff members, expanded its facilities to accommodate more residents and boosted morale among both staff and residents, ensuring a thriving and supportive community.
Mayor Dr Nik Johnson, said:
“I’m pleased that we’ve been able to support Soham Lodge Care Centre to cut costs by an impressive £30k per year and reduce their carbon footprint.
“From speaking with residents and staff, it’s clear to see the positive impact the grant funding has made to not only improve operational efficiency but also enhancing their living and working conditions.”
David Lidford, Owner of Soham Lodge Care Centre, said:
“This funding has made a huge difference to our carbon footprint and has massively reduced our overheads which lets us re-invest to keep offering top-level care to our residents.
“As a result of the CPCA Climate Change Grant I believe our care home is probably one of the most sustainable in the region.
“A huge thank you to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for giving us the opportunity to eco-proof our facilities for the future.”
Pictured from left Judy Cable (Resident Manager), Philip Hope (Facilities Manager), Combined Authority Mayor Dr Nik Johnson and Zara Reynolds-Peirce (Activities and Events Manager).
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