Setting new standards

According to the National Office of Statistics, the overall population grew by eight per cent to 60.6million from 1971 to mid-2006. The largest increase was seen in the 85 years and older category - up 69,000 to a record 1.2million. This trend is expected to continue for the remainder of the first half of this century.

This has of course had a positive effect on the UK's care home sector, which is estimated to be worth 9billion a year. Despite this, the industry continues to be plighted by negative publicity.  

However, one national provider of care for the elderly is looking to change the public's perception of elderly care. Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG) has recently embarked on a consumer advertising and PR campaign, A better quality of life, to promote the exceptional standards of care it provides to its residents.

Established in Leeds in 1996, the luxury care provider has 23 elderly care homes in its portfolio. MMCG offers residential and nursing services as well as specialist care for residents with dementia, mental illness and physical disabilities. The geographical spread in England reaches from The Channel Islands to Northumberland, and it also has homes in Northern Ireland.

MMCG has set the benchmark for its competitors, as MMCG Managing Director, Maria Twarowski explains: "Our excellent reputation is a result of the high quality of service we provide to all of our residents. We ensure that people are treated as individuals and tailor care plans to meet their specific requirements.

"We also understand that moving to a residential or nursing home is a difficult decision, and in many cases, the last option. It is vital all residents are treated with respect and are able to maintain their independence and dignity.

"At MMCG, we create a real home-from-home environment. The health and happiness of our residents is of paramount importance to all our staff."