Barbados is poised to revolutionize its approach to community care with the impending completion of the Sterling Residential and Respite Facility in St Philip. Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey has announced significant progress on this groundbreaking project, which promises to reshape support services for older adults, children, and persons with disabilities through an innovative community-based model.
The development represents a collaborative effort between the Ministry of People Empowerment, the National Assistance Board, the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association, and Soroptimist International of Barbados. Rather than creating large institutional settings, the facility embraces a modern philosophy of smaller, clustered residences arranged in circular pods to foster genuine community connections and relationships.
Construction is advancing through carefully planned phases. Renovation of the main heritage building is nearing completion, with tender processes for subsequent stages scheduled to begin imminently. The comprehensive complex will eventually include 60-70 residential units, specialized dementia and Alzheimer’s care services, day nursery facilities for children, and fully accessible spaces designed for persons with all types of disabilities.
With an estimated total investment between $10-12 million, the project allocates approximately $2 million for renovating the historic structure while the remainder funds new construction. The first phase will deliver 20-30 residences, with overall completion expected within the first six to seven months of this year.
Minister Humphrey emphasized the intentional design pause taken last year to ensure complete accessibility and inclusivity. The revised plans now incorporate accommodations for physical, sensory, and visual impairments alongside expanded green and social spaces. This ‘caring in place’ approach aims to support both residents and families providing home care.
The government plans to replicate this innovative model across Barbados, with similar facilities already in development for St Thomas and St George parishes, signaling a nationwide transformation in social service delivery.