Dear News Of The Area,
I am writing to you over the concern of the privatisation of both Tomaree Lodge and Stockton Centre and the eviction of long time residents who have called these disability centres their home over the many years that they have been cared for.
Both Tomaree Lodge and Stockton Centre are steeped in historical pasts with Tomaree Lodge being built by the Americans as a Training Centre during World War 2, later becoming a naval hospital/infirmary, transferred over to the State Government after the war it became a Centre for those suffering from Mental illness before becoming a home for the Disabled’
Stockton Disability Centre also has an historical past, it was built originally as a Quarantine Station after which it became a Hospital for those suffering from Mental illness to Stockton Disability Centre which is still known as today.
As a Carer myself certified in Aged care, Disability and Home and Community Care I strongly believe that the residents could be disadvantaged by being moved out into Community Housing.
Growing up and going to School in Nelson Bay I know both these facilities well, my Brother in Law is currently a Resident being cared for at Stockton Disability Centre.
Stuart Tomlinson