News Categories: Older Persons

New concept in older persons housing with care for Bangor

Construction work at a new £8.35 million extra care housing scheme in Bangor is gathering momentum, marking a new concept in older persons living for the town.

North Wales Housing is managing the pioneering development named ‘Cae Garnedd’ in partnership with Gwynedd Council, which is taking shape on the site of a former derelict home on Penhros Road, with the show flat now open for public viewing.

The extra care scheme will be the first of its kind for Bangor and offers an alternative way of living for older people, providing independent living supported by care and support. Extra Care essentially bridges the gap between independent living and nursing home care. It offers older people choice in terms of the level of care and support that they need whilst enjoying their independence.

The scheme includes 15 one and 27 two-bedroom apartments, each containing its own kitchen, living area and bathroom. Residents are able to utilise as much or as little of the communal facilities available which include rest, leisure and activity areas, as well as a central catered dining area. Twenty four hour care is available and is determined by the needs of every individual for whom a care plan can be adapted as their needs change.

Paul Diggory, Chief Executive of North Wales Housing said:

“This is the first extra care scheme in Bangor and provides an important alternative for older members of our community when considering their housing options. We’re incredibly proud to be able to bring this scheme to the town.”

“For many older people, living opportunities can be considered at very opposing ends of the spectrum from full independent living to residential or nursing care. Extra Care bridges this gap and offers people a choice to retain their independent living with support and care when needed.”

Paul added:

“The building itself is set in an excellent position within the town, offering easy access to key destinations and attractions within the town. There is a strong interest from local residents, many of whom have already registered their interest. The show flat is now open and we have a scheme manager appointed who will be glad to show people around.”

Councillor Wyn Williams, the Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Care, added:

“I’m delighted that work on the extra care housing complex at Penrhosgarnedd is coming along so well.”

“Once completed, Cae Garnedd will offer older people a comfortable home plus the peace of mind of flexible care services.”

The project is expected to be completed later this year, with Kinmel-based K&C Construction carrying out construction works employing local tradesmen, suppliers and merchants. The structure is being built using environmentally sound materials and once complete is expected to achieve a BREEAM rating of Excellent.

Llys y coed residents go black and white with silent cinema viewing

Residents at Llys y Coed extra care housing scheme in Llanfairfechan enjoyed an afternoon of silent cinema with a special screening of a classic Charlie Chaplin film..

A large cinema screen was erected at Llys y Coed and the black and white filming was accompanied by a pianist who played tunes from the 40’s before the film, during the interval and at the end. The audience nibbled on cake and refreshments and were taken back in time as the ambience and feel of an old style cinema was recreated,

Residents from Bryn Castellan older persons scheme next door to Llys y Coed were also invited, providing an opportunity for the group to meet new friends, share stories and give their views on a range of matters important to them. Organised by Conwy BIG Community voice (a project run in partnership between Conwy Voluntary Services, North wales Housing, Cartrefi Conwy, and Clwyd Alyn ), the event was a huge success. Residents also took part in a consultation on local services.

Cheryl Haggas, Manager of Llys y Coed said:

“This was a lovely afternoon and the residents all enjoyed it. People were chatting and reminiscing and talking about how much things have changed since the days of black and white cinema. The film and the atmosphere was a fantastic talking point that stirred up some wonderful memories”

Paul Diggory, Chief Executive of North Wales Housing added:

“We’re working on a number of different projects through Community Voice that focus on various groups of people that we are involved with. It’s really important that our older tenants and residents are given opportunities to take part in initiatives that are relevant and important to them, and I feel that this is a fantastic working example of this idea in practise.”

Hats off to Y Gorlan Easter bunny’s

A group of residents at older person’s scheme, Y Gorlan in Bangor, have celebrated Easter in style, creating their own Easter bonnets that were judged and a winner chosen in a hotly contented competition!

Over seven residents created their own bonnets and were joined by Deputy Mayor Jean Forsyth who was invited along to judge the competition. Following a rigorous judging process Janice Gough was declared the winner and presented with a gift voucher.

Glenys Rowlands, Scheme Manger at Y Gorlan said:

“What a great day – all our residents went to so much effort with their bonnets and there was definitely an element of fun and competition in the air. This was the first event that our new residents committee organised and it’s been a huge success and defeinitley inspired confidence to plan more for the future.”

Residents and guests enjoyed an Easter dinner and drinks followed by a raffle with Easter egg prizes with the finale being the bonnet competition.

Glenys added:

“All of our residents took part and really embraced the day. All moneys raised from the raffle will go towards the residents fund and be used for future events. The residents are really enthused about planning since the launch of the committee and today is testament to their hard work and efforts!”

Open doors to show apartment at pioneering Abergele Extra Care scheme

The doors have been thrown open at the show apartment at Hafod y Parc Extra Care scheme in Abergele, with an invite to interested local people.

 

The £11million new build Extra Care scheme, on Kinmel Avenue, will be the first of its kind to open in the town. Extra Care Housing gives older people a choice; providing independent living, with a care and support programme that can be adapted as assessed needs change.

With 49 one and two bed apartments, the show apartment gives the opportunity to experience and get a flavour of how the Scheme will be once fully complete in February 2014. The apartment opening will also allow people to meet the team from North Wales Housing , to find out more about the extra care scheme at Hafod y Parc.

Paul Diggory, Chief Executive of North Wales Housing said:

“There is a clear need throughout North Wales for more extra care housing that allows older people to sustain an independent lifestyle with peace of mind through a care and support option. Extra Care housing facilitates this need and we are pleased to be developing schemes of housing that specifically suits later years lifestyles.”

The new scheme, built in partnership with Conwy County Borough Council, will be of contemporary design set in a peaceful and tranquil setting and has been developed to be exceptionally high quality with modern amenities throughout. On site, care and support will be provided by AKC Home Care Services, an experienced local company.

Building on the success of its first Extra Care Housing scheme, Llys y Coed in Llanfairfechan, North Wales Housing has been able to replicate key elements at Hafod y Parc.

Interest in the scheme has been high but applications are still welcome.

Viewing of the Show Apartment is by appointment only – contact North Wales Housing on (01492) 572727.