Throughout this year at St Vincent de Paul, we have continued to make significant investments to ensure that we are in a better position to deliver the highest quality of care and meet the evolving needs of our residents as effectively as possible.

The number of new clinics, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, has continued to grow this year. We have introduced a gastroenterology clinic, a cardiac clinic, a neuromedical clinic, and a liver clinic, adding more medical equipment including ultrasound machines and cardiac monitors.

Consequently, this year has seen a significant increase in the number of elderly persons utilizing our services. This includes not only our residents but also elderly individuals from the wider community and other elderly care facilities.

In terms of infrastructure, the extensive renovation of two wards remains ongoing. We have recently completed the restoration of the wards’ facade, and internal work on the services are in an advanced stage. This project is being implemented by a combination of private contractors and SVP employees.

Moreover, the development of the second floor of the pharmacy block is progressing well, with services nearing completion and the procurement of necessary equipment imminent.

Another project nearing completion is the therapeutic petting farm. Recent progress on works includes the installation of lighting and water systems, as well as plastering and other works. Paving works are currently in progress, and in the coming weeks, trees and plants will be introduced. A comprehensive plan is being formulated to determine how animal therapy will be provided to our residents, with careful consideration given to selecting the most suitable animal breeds.

Extensive works at the cat café have also been completed, following significant neglect by its previous administrators. As a result, we were required to allocate unexpected funds towards these works. 

This year has also witnessed an increase in the number of activities organized for our residents, both within the facility and externally. Simultaneously, we have enhanced staff training programs, introducing new courses tailored to foreign workers, aimed at improving communication with Maltese residents, and providing cultural training on Maltese customs and traditions.

A particularly ambitious initiative launched this year is the intermediate care initiative. For the first time, a dedicated ward has been established to accommodate elderly individuals—both residents and community members—who require post-operative care after surgery at Mater Dei Hospital, until their recovery is complete.

The same services are provided here with the aim of alleviating the burden on the general hospital by decentralizing care, thus offering patients greater convenience, and reducing logistical challenges.

Despite being a pilot initiative, this new project has been met with considerable demand, prompting plans to open an additional ward in the coming months.