A new housing scheme is being created which will helping people in Carlton with profound learning difficulties, autism and mental health issues enjoy a more independent life.
Nottinghamshire County Council says it has commissioned Progress Housing Group to build specialist accommodation for up to 12 people on Briarbank Avenue.
The bespoke supported living scheme will provide a mix of fully-adapted shared and self-contained accommodation over two floors.
The service will have a focus on increasing people’s independence and getting them ready to move on to a longer-term home.
It will be suitable for younger adults with learning disabilities who have never lived independently or people with mental health needs who are leaving hospital. All tenants will receive support from an onsite care provider to develop their independent living skills.
Clare Grazebrook’s son Jake has autism and he moved into supported living accommodation in another part of Gedling borough in summer 2019. The move has been a great success, allowing him to live independently in a highly adapted, safe home which meets his needs.
Clare said: “I think Jake is very happy in his new home. The open plan layout allows him easy access to all parts of the accommodation and avoids self-isolation whilst allowing privacy at the same time. The property does appear very robust and meets his needs very well. I was very happy that I was consulted and listened to at each step of the process to ensure it would be just right for him.”
Councillor Scott Carlton, Vice-Chairman of Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee, said: “One of our priorities is to offer alternative accommodation in the community for people who are either leaving hospital or may be at risk of going into residential care. So, I am delighted that we can take this first step in the development, which will bring an important specialist service to the south of the county.
“Thank you to Progress Housing Group and everyone involved with the project for all your work so far, which has been made particularly challenging due to the pandemic. I look forward to seeing the completion of Briarbank Supported Living Scheme in September next year.”
Daniel Griffiths, Operations Director (Development) at Progress Housing Group, said: “The acquisition of this site was followed by construction delays due to the pandemic, so making this start on site marks significant progress towards delivering this much needed specialist service in the area.
“Not only will it promote independence for individuals with support needs, but it will also reduce demand for institutional care. Progress Housing Group are delighted to work with Nottinghamshire County Council to achieve delivery of this project.”
