Strange as it might seem, the Emma Barter Home was first founded to house elderly ladies and the Victoria Memorial Home housed the gents. The gents seem to have died off earlier than their female counterparts as both homes now cater mainly to ladies. There are a few men residing in the home, but they are greatly outnumbered by the women (lucky fellows).
Emma Barter Home never had a dedicated frail care facility while Victoria Memorial Home did. Although the 2 homes were considered brother and sister homes, they were operated separately and divided by a high concrete wall.
About mid year 2014 they were amalgamated and all facilities and staff became one. The homes are now run jointly and overseen by a manager and a matron. This saved costs as staff positions were mostly duplicated.
Each home has its own lounge, diningroom and facilities such as library, but a common admin section, frailcare and kitchen cater to both homes.
