Worcestershire-based care provider expands with backing from Allied Irish Bank (GB)

A Worcestershire-based provider of specialist residential care and education has expanded with the opening of a new facility for adolescents in a £1.5m project backed by Allied Irish Bank (GB)* (AIB (GB)).  

Our Place Schools of Bransford, near Worcester, has launched a new purpose-designed 10-roomed residential centre for adolescents on the autistic spectrum or with severe learning difficulties. The new facility, called Lakeside @ Our Place, is set next to the 6.5 acre grounds of the organisation’s existing residential home, which cares for children and young people.

The provision has recently received Ofsted registration.

Run by a highly-trained team of specialists led by director Lena Graham, Lakeside @ Our Place provides individuals with bespoke care and education in a secure and homely atmosphere. The registered manager is Emily Clews who is supported by a deputy head of care and team of care workers.

David French, lead investor and executive director at Our Place Schools, said: “AIB (GB)’s backing has been vital to achieving our mission to develop this new facility. From our first meeting the bank’s insight and track record of supporting businesses in the healthcare sector was impressive and I’m sure this sector focus is going to make a huge difference to our ongoing business relationship.

“Opening Lakeside enables us to help make the transition for young people to adulthood as seamless as possible. Our residents will enjoy a high level of independence in a friendly, safe and respectful environment and be encouraged to enjoy the best possible quality of life and realise their full potential.”

Mark Duggan, head of AIB (GB)’s healthcare team in the West Midlands, added: “Our Place Schools has built a fantastic reputation in its field of expertise, and the depth of knowledge, skill and understanding shown by the management team and staff for the individuals in their care is second-to-none. This is a very exciting time for both the senior team and residents at

Lakeside, and everyone at AIB (GB) is pleased to have played a part in helping David and his team bring their new development to fruition. We wish them every success.”

The transaction was assisted by Colm McGrory, partner at Worcestershire accountants Ormerod Rutter.