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5.
July
2017.
New Community Living scheme launched

New Community Living scheme launched

 

A new scheme which aims to provide sustainable homes to enable older people to live independently in the community for longer has been launched.

 

Cardiff Council's Community Living Scheme has been given the seal of approval by residents of Sandown Court in Caerau, a sheltered housing scheme that has recently been completely refurbished to provide flexible and fit for purpose accommodation for older residents.

 

Tenants joined Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, at the launch which marked the completion of the refurbishment project.

 

Sandown Court is home to residents over 60. As part of the recent upgrade, works have been carried out to meet RNIB ‘gold' standards, with consideration being given to sight loss and dementia sufferers. All flats on the ground floor are fully accessible incorporating wider corridors, wet rooms, open plan living/dining space, ample storage and height adjustable kitchens.

 

The previously bland and uninviting communal rooms have been refurbished to provide a range of flexible spaces suitable for delivering a range of services and activities for older people, both as part of the scheme and from the wider community.

 

Cllr Thorne, said: "I'm delighted with the difference in Sandown Court - the place is looking fantastic following the refurbishment. Residents have been telling me how happy they are with their ‘new' home as well.

 

"As well as providing comfortable and fit for purpose accommodation that older people want to live in, the Community Living scheme aims to help tackle social isolation in the wider community and provide real support where it is needed.

 

"We know that people are living for longer these days and that's good news, but it isn't without its challenges. Community Living provides sustainable accommodation that will meet people's needs, both now and into the future, allowing them to maintain their independence for as long as possible."

 

As well as internal improvements, external areas at Sandown Court have also had a makeover to ensure they are easily accessible for residents, providing space that can be used and enjoyed.

 

Cllr Thorne added: "Sandown Court is just the first of our sheltered accommodation to undergo improvement works. Our plan is to roll out the Community Living approach to other sheltered complexes to ensure all of our older person stock is sustainable and fit for purpose."