The Night Shelter is slated for major upgrades following an on-site assessment by Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, on Tuesday.
Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud examining the sleeping quarters at the Night Shelter
The Department of Public Information reported that during her visit, Minister Persaud evaluated the kitchen area, sleeping quarters, sanitary block, and the recreational hall and noted that there is a need for major improvement.
“The facility needs to be upgraded along with more staff being brought onboard. The residents, as well as, the [current] staff, have expressed a number of concerns, such as having access to medication and medical care in the facility because we are now operating under a new normal, which is the COVID pandemic,” the Minister was quoted as saying.
In the immediate future, Minister Persaud has committed to ensuring the facility has more amenities such as beds, mattresses, pillows, sheets, and healthy meals.
“Coming from a medical background, I know the elderly have different health issues. As such, their needs will be different, depending on if they are hypertensive, diabetic or they have any other chronic disease conditions,” the Minister noted.
There are also plans to upgrade and add new washroom facilities that will also cater to persons who are living with disabilities. Minister Persaud disclosed that currently, there are none.
Also on her list of upgrades to the facility are more programmes and activities, such as board games, reading material and television to provide more recreational options for the residents. A suggestion box will also be installed so they can offer their ideas to make the atmosphere of the shelter more uplifting.
Minister Persaud also visited the Family Enhancement Services Department which falls under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.
