General Information
Day care facilities are provided as part of Doncaster Council's Community Care Provision and aim to help older or disabled people live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
Day Care is aimed at:
- Older people who are physically frail and need more planned care and attention
- Carers who need respite
- Older people who are lonely and need emotional or practical support
- Younger disabled people and their carers who would benefit from attending the Centre
Day Care offers:
- A break from home
- Carers a break from their caring role
- A chance to learn new skills
- A chance to make new friends and meet other people
How do I apply for Day Care?
The first step is for you or a friend, relative, GP, or Community Nurse to contact Doncaster Council with your name and address.
Someone from Doncaster Council will visit you at home to make an assessment of your needs. Once your needs have been assessed and it has been agreed that the services offered by a Day Centre would suit your needs we will make arrangements for you to visit one of our Day Centres so that you can see what happens there.
How will I get to the Centre?
If you have your own transport you will be expected to make your own way to the Centre. For those people without their own transport each Centre has a bus which is adapted for wheelchair users and the bus will take you to and from home to the Centre.
What will happen when I attend the Centre?
The Centre staff will welcome you and tea or coffee will be available before activities start.
What types of activity are available?
The types of activities available at each Day Centre vary depending on the interests of the people who use the Centre. Activities include:
- Crafts, such as needlework, embroider, knitting, crochet and basket work
- Painting and drawing, collage, and decorative ceramics for beginners and experienced artist
- Games, such as, cards, dominoes, scrabble, quizzes, competitions and bingo
- Pool
- Access to learning through computers
- Computer games and educational programmes
- Woodwork, wood carving, are available at the Stirling Day Centre.
We are always interested in any suggestions for new activities, and advice and support is always available from our experienced staff, teachers and volunteers.
When can I go to the Centre?
The days and times when you will go to the Centre will be agreed with you. All Centres are open six days a week, but opening times vary depending on the Centre. Mexborough Centre is also open Monday & Wednesday evenings.
Are meals and drinks available?
Drinks are available throughout the day and a full meal is available at dinner or teatime. A choice of meal is available and every effort is made to cater for individual taste. If for any reason a special diet is required, for example on health, religious or cultural grounds, this should be discussed with the Centre Manager or Cook. A charge is made for meals and drinks and you can bring sandwiches if you prefer.
What staff support is available?
Each Centre has trained staff to help with any care you need, including feeding, personal care, hand washing and taking off and putting on coats.
Our larger Centres have special facilities such as hoists, a high/low bath, closomat and arrangements can be made for you to have a bath if you wish. We want you to be happy and comfortable during your visit to the Centre.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
If you need to take tablets or other medication during your visit to the Centre you should bring these with you. If you need help to take tablets or medication please let the Centre Manager know.
If you use any aids such as a walking stick or wheelchair you should bring them with you. The Centres all have easy access and space for wheelchairs.
Can I bring a friend?
There is limited space in the Centres, but you can make arrangements to show your friends around and private space can be made available in an emergency. Staff will meet and talk to friends, relatives and carers if they are concerned.
Friends, relatives and carers are welcome to come to the Centre open days and fund raising events. Carers groups also exist and offer a chance for carers to meet other carers for support and advice.
How much will visiting the Centre cost?
There is a fixed charge for a cooked meal and a small charge for tea and coffee. You may have to pay to attend and this can range from a nil contribution up to a charge of £5.00. The amount will depend on your financial assessment.
What happens if I want to make a comment or complaint about the service I get at the Centre?
Any problems can be discussed with the Centre Manager who will try to sort out any concerns you have and meet your needs. If you are still unhappy or would prefer not to talk to the Manager you can fill in the Form attached below:
Day Centre addresses
Stirling Centre, Milton Walk, Doncaster, DN1 3QG Telephone (01302) 363201. This is the biggest centre offering services to older people and adults with a physical disability.
Mexborough Day Centre, Harlington Road, Mexborough S64 0QG telephone (01709) 585224 This centre caters for older people and adults with a physical disability in Mexborough and the surrounding areas.
Askarne Centre, Spa Pool Road, Askern, Doncaster, DN6 0HZ telephone (01302) 707791. This is a small local centre for older people.
