Royal-Opened Cornwall Respite Centre Plans Huge Celebration for 20th Anniversary

A specialist respite service for adults with learning disabilities, officially opened by Princess Anne, is preparing to mark a major milestone this summer.

Chy Keres, based in Tregadillett near Launceston, first welcomed guests in June 2005 when the Princess Royal visited to officially open the purpose-built centre. Now, two decades on, the service is preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Supporting Adults Across Cornwall

Run by the learning disability charity Hft, Chy Keres offers person-centred respite care to adults from across Cornwall. The facility features six ensuite bedrooms and caters for over 40 individuals, many of whom live at home with their families.

The centre offers flexible stays ranging from day visits to week-long breaks, providing vital opportunities for families to rest and recharge. It also delivers emergency placements and longer-term support commissioned by Cornwall Council.

“We have around a 97 per cent occupancy rate, so it’s a busy service,” explained Service Manager Sam Zilkha. “We work closely with individuals and their families to make sure we meet their needs in the best possible way.”

A Space Tailored to Individual Needs

Over the years, Chy Keres has been continually updated to meet the evolving needs of its visitors. One room now boasts a sensory bath with bubbles, lights and music, which Sam describes as particularly popular.

A sensory room, funded through donations, adds another dimension to the centre. It offers a calming environment complete with a vibrating sofa, bubble tubes, projector, sound system and light-up floor. “It’s a great chill out space,” Sam added.

Communal areas include two lounges, one featuring a pool table, and two kitchens described as the “beating heart” of the home where individuals enjoy craft and cooking activities.

Outdoor Space and Life Skills

The wrap-around garden has seen many improvements over the years. Green-fingered guests can grow their own vegetables in a polytunnel funded by fundraising efforts, while a sensory summerhouse complete with beanbags and a fidget board offers another area to relax. A path to better connect the summerhouse to the main building is hoped to be installed later this year.

Fundraising is also underway for new garden equipment, including a basket swing.

Chy Keres supports residents in developing life skills as well as enjoying leisure activities such as shopping, swimming and days out. “Some who have attended over the years have gone on to live independently in the local community due to the life skills they gained here,” said support worker Sarah, who has been part of the team for 15 years.

Looking Back and Looking Ahead

The COVID-19 pandemic saw temporary changes to the centre’s operations, but Chy Keres emerged as busy as ever.

A special summer party is planned for 25th June 2025 to mark the anniversary. Senior Support Worker Theresa shared details of the upcoming event, which will feature live music, stalls, food, and activities including a coconut shy and a craft stall showcasing items made by people who use the service. A grand raffle will also be held.

“We will be celebrating Chy Keres’s 20th anniversary in style,” said Theresa. “And it will be wonderful to do so with the people we have supported over those two decades and continue to support while looking forward to the next 20 years of this incredible place.”

Anyone wishing to offer a prize or support the anniversary celebrations is encouraged to email sam.zilkha@hft.org.uk.