A SUPERMARKET chain has donated more than £1,000 to a care home in Largs to provide an essential piece of equipment helping residents with mobility issues.

The dedicated team of managers and trustees at Haylie House applied for funding from Tesco's ‘Stronger Starts’ programme, and were delighted to be awarded with the grant.

The funds were used to purchase a brand-new stairlift, which will provide another method of accessing the upper floor from the lower level when the home’s lift is not available.

Gerry Condron, who is on the board of trustees at Haylie House, said: “Many of our residents, and even some visiting guests and staff members, have mobility issues, so the lift is the easiest way for them to access the upper floor.

"When the lift is out of service due to maintenance, or even when it’s extremely busy – there can be a hold up in getting everyone to their rooms or where they need to be.

“The grant from Tesco allowed us to purchase the stairlift, which has been a great asset for Haylie House. We now have an additional way to comfortably support those needing extra assistance.”

Claire De Silva, head of community for Tesco, said: “At Tesco we believe it’s incredibly important to support local schools, community groups and charities throughout Scotland, including in and around Ayrshire.

“We hope this funding has helped to make a difference to the residents of Haylie House and the incredible staff members who dedicate their time to helping those unable to care for themselves.”

Haylie House first opened as a not-for-profit care home for the elderly in 1955 until a fire forced its closure in 1991. However, three years later, it reopened stronger than ever and today has 23 residents to care for.

Gerry added: “We are at capacity with residents, which is why grants like these are so important for us to continue providing the best possible support for those in our care, as well as easing the minds of their family members.”