![](https://southleedslife.com/wp-content/uploads/Gascoigne-House-Aerial.jpg)
I reported in November that I had moved into the Council’s new Gascoigne House extra care apartments in Middleton. This week I’ve been talking to the staff about their experienmce of working here. Here’s what they told me:
“My name is Laura, I’m 42 years old. I have worked for Leeds City Council for the past 4 years.
“I have a background in Childcare. I absolutely love working here at Gascoigne House with the slightly older generation.
I have been with my lovely Husband for over 24 years and we have two grown up children, Leah (22) and Brandon (18).“I love doing creative things and my home is full of all sorts of quirky things. I enjoy doing jigsaws, going to concerts and spending time with family and friends.
“Also enjoy holidays and recently went to Canada for a holiday and family wedding.
“A fun fact about me: I have five tattoos, and I’m apparently 5 ft 3in, although if you ask me I’m defiantly taller. I like to have fun, and often jump out on people, or make a funny joke.
“My job at Gascoigne House is to keep all the residents happy and I love it.”
Ken, I cant remember seeing these tattoos, you will have to show me Laura.
“I’m Tracey West, a Senior Care Support Worker at Gascoigne House.
“Before working for Gascoigne House, I worked as a carer in the community. Since applying and getting the job at Gascoigne House, my role has been more rewarding.
“The residents and other staff here are so happy and secure with their surroundings and enjoy the entertainment. The staff and residents enjoy each day.
“It is such a pleasure to be part of Gascoigne House, we are one big happy family now.”
What is Extra Care? Extra Care Housing provided the for individuals or couples who have care, support and a housing need to live in their own home with their own kitchen in a safe and secure environment within a community setting.
It enables people to maintain their independence and receive a range of support and care services that meet their individual needs within their home. Each home is accessible and designed or able to be adapted to support the delivery of personal, social and health care services. The flexibility to meet present and future changing needs allows for a home for life.
Ken, I’ve been a resident at Gascoigne House now for nearly seven months. I believe I was the third person to move here. I love all the staff, health care assistants and residents. They can’t do enough for me or the other residents.
Look forward to hearing more stories from staff and residents soon.
While you’re here, can we ask a favour?
South Leeds Life is published by a not-for-profit social enterprise. We keep our costs as low as possible but we’ve been hit by increases in the print costs for our monthly newspaper which have doubled in the last two years.
Could you help support local community news by making a one off donation, or even better taking out a supporters subscription?
Donate here, or sign up for a subscription at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe
Thank you for your support