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Bosses and staff at an award-winning Shropshire company are celebrating 21 years of business after caring for adults with learning disabilities from across the county.

Joe Kwaterski, business development director at Adelphi Care Services in Shrewsbury, said  he was “extremely proud” that they had reached the special anniversary.

The company has expanded greatly since it was launched following the establishment of The Orchard School in Shrewsbury which opened its doors 21 years ago. The school marked the beginning of what became Adelphi Care Services.

The residential school for students aged between 11- 19 years, with severe learning difficulties and challenging behaviours, opened its doors in 1992.

Now the firm based at Longbow Professional Centre in Harlescott which employs 135 staff, has a portfolio of residential properties in Wem and Shrewsbury which offer a home for people aged from 19 to 64 who have learning difficulties, Autism or Aspergers in addition to supported living and domiciliary services.

Mr Kwaterski said: “When Adelphi Care Services first began all those years ago the aim was to provide support and care for young adults and give them a chance to feel part of the community.

“Over time we have been able to achieve that and much more. The services we offer has expanded greatly but what is vital is that we have improved the lives of so many and offered them opportunities they may not have otherwise been offered.

“There are very exciting plans in place for all at Adelphi in 2013 and we are looking forward to continue offering the standard of care which saw us win the prestigious British Safety Council Sword of Honour last year.”

The latest addition to Adelphi Care Services’ portfolio was a £500,000 respite specific respite centre for adults with autism – the first of its kind in Shropshire – which was opened last year in Wem.

Barra House gives adults with autism a rest whilst also giving their carers and families the chance to enjoy a break.

It is a pilot autism-specific service which will be used to gain Autism Accreditation through the National Autistic Society over a three year period.

Mr Kwaterski said: “It is a very exciting time for us and we are always working on further developments.

“This will include our first venture into Staffordshire with a new property in Stoke. 2012 was a fantastic year for Adelphi Care Services but our milestone year of 2013 is going to be even better.”

To find out more about Adelphi Care Services visit www.adelphicareservices.co.uk, call (01743) 465299 or e-mail admin@adelphicareservices.co.uk.